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Covent Garden is one of central London's busiest dining quarters, packed with everything from buzzy international chains to destination restaurants, all moments from the West End theatres. It is a natural choice for a pre-theatre dinner or a lively meal in the heart of town. Here is how to eat well, and how to book.
For a special meal
The piazza and its surrounding streets hold some of London's best-known restaurants, including grand brasseries and high-profile chef-led rooms. These get booked weeks ahead, so reserve early for weekends and pre-theatre slots.
Pre-theatre and casual
Many Covent Garden restaurants offer good-value fixed-price pre-theatre menus served early in the evening, ideal before a show. For something more relaxed, Seven Dials and Neal's Yard nearby are full of independent and casual options.
How to book and time it
Book ahead, and if you are seeing a show, tell the restaurant so they can pace your meal. Eating before about 7pm or after 8.30pm avoids the worst of the theatre rush. See our Covent Garden neighbourhood guide for what else to do nearby.
Good to know
For the city's very best tables see our Michelin-star restaurants guide, and browse all our food coverage in the restaurants section.
