London’s top pre-theatre dining in London Bridge
London Bridge is the gateway to South London and a treasure trove of unique theatres. There’s the Menier Chocolate Factory with The Bunker next door, kids’ favourite Unicorn Theatre, and the innovative Southwark Playhouse to name just a handful. Try something different for pre-theatre dining in London Bridge at one of these standout local restaurants: Pre-theatre dining in London Bridge on a budget Dim T [http://www.bookatable.com/uk/112490/dim-t-london-bridge?indirect=207] Pan-Asian restaurant Dim T has something for everyone, from Pad Thai and freshly steamed dim sum to a self-service noodle bar. With its relaxed vibe, extensive menu and great views over the Thames, it’s the ideal location for a hassle-free pre-theatre gathering. Tom’s Kitchen [http://www.bookatable.com/uk/301014/toms-kitchen-bar-hms-belfast?indirect=207] Set in the visitor centre of the famous HMS Belfast, Tom’s Kitchen Deli and Bar offers diners spectacular views of top London landmarks. From a food point of view, there’s a tempting selection of sandwiches, salads and cakes. The deli closes at 6pm, but the bar is open till late offering a range of wines, cocktails, craft ales and sharing boards. Menier Chocolate Factory [http://www.bookatable.com/uk/235285/menier-chocolate-factory?indirect=207] Don’t be fooled by its name, the Menier Chocolate Factory’s restaurant isn’t all about sweet treats. It actually serves gourmet European dishes and top-notch sharing plates. For chocolate lovers, there are some decadently gooey brownies on the menu too. The bare bricks, exposed pipes, timber beams and candlelight give this former chocolate factory a cool, industrial-chic look that has proved very popular with those attending a show nearby. Splashing out on pre-theatre dining in London Bridge Aqua Shard [http://www.bookatable.com/uk/242263/aqua-shard?indirect=207] There aren’t many restaurants in London that can boast Aqua Shard’s stunning views. Based on the 31st floor of The Shard, this sky-high restaurant serves up contemporary British dishes. The showpiece three-storey-high atrium bar also offers fabulous signature cocktails. Rabot 1745 [https://www.opentable.co.uk/single.aspx?rid=98337&ref=11036] If chocolate is king; then Rabot 1745 is its palace. A chocoholic’s heaven, this unique restaurant brings the flavour of a St Lucia plantation house to London’s bustling Borough Market. Head here to sample the dazzling array of cocoa-based cocktails and Caribbean-inspired, cocoa-centric menu, where roasted cocoa is used as a subtle savoury spice. Restaurant Story [https://www.opentable.co.uk/single.aspx?rid=103179&ref=11036] Behind every dish there’s a story and at this Michelin starred restaurant you’re invited on a culinary journey through the history of British food. Restaurant Story, located close to London’s iconic Tower Bridge, is where chef and patron Tom Sellers creates his foodie “love story” with innovative, ingredient-led dishes. Each one is carefully paired with a selection from the superb wine list. The ideal restaurant to begin a night of storytelling.