The Perfect Pre Theatre Menu in Covent Garden – Delamina Sets the Stage
Covent Garden, home to some of London’s most iconic theatres and cultural venues, offers no shortage of dining spots – but when it comes to combining culinary flair with pre-show convenience, Delamina stands centre stage. With its Tel Aviv-inspired dishes, charming ambience, and commitment to flavourful, health-conscious food, Delamina’s pre-theatre menu is a standout choice for anyone looking to enjoy a satisfying meal before an evening of drama, comedy, or musical magic.
At just £27.50 per person, the pre-theatre offering at Delamina is thoughtfully curated, balancing bold Eastern Mediterranean flavours with speed and simplicity – perfect for diners on a schedule but unwilling to compromise on quality.
A Flavourful Opening Act
The menu begins with a choice of one of three vibrant starters, each showcasing Delamina’s commitment to fresh ingredients and exciting combinations. If you’re after a plant-based option that doesn’t sacrifice indulgence, the crispy oyster mushrooms with truffled artichokes (VG, GF) offer a crunchy, earthy delight with a sophisticated twist.
For something lighter, the gem lettuce with pomelo and barberries vinaigrette (VG, GF) is refreshing and zingy – a clever blend of bitterness, citrus, and sweetness that awakens the palate. Alternatively, the kohlrabi carpaccio with feta and pistachios (V, GF) provides a delicate balance of crunch, creaminess, and subtle nuttiness – an elegant nod to Tel Aviv’s fusion of rustic and refined culinary traditions.
For diners seeking to extend the experience, there’s the option to add the Kubaneh sharing bread for £13. Served with tahini, zhoug, salsa, and smokey aubergine, this rich and fluffy Yemenite-style bread is a star in its own right – ideal for tearing, dipping, and savouring slowly. Though technically an optional extra, it’s one we wholeheartedly recommend for the full Delamina experience.
A Show-Stopping Main Course
The main courses on Delamina’s pre-theatre menu reflect the same ethos as the starters: fresh, hearty, and full of soul. The grilled chicken ras-el-hanout (GF, DF) is beautifully spiced, with aromatic depth and a smoky finish, served atop a comforting roasted sweet potato purée. It’s a dish that manages to be both nourishing and flavour-forward – exactly what you want before heading into the West End.
If you prefer seafood, the seabass chermoula is a fantastic choice. Accompanied by giant couscous, roasted artichokes, and a delicate dill yoghurt, it’s a dish that marries texture and flavour with finesse, offering the sort of refinement usually found on a full à la carte.
Vegetarian and vegan diners are well looked after too, with the glazed aubergine and vegetable hotpot (VG, GF). Packed with haricot beans and topped with puffed buckwheat, this warming dish delivers deep umami richness with a tahini drizzle to tie it all together. It’s proof that plant-based can be just as indulgent and satisfying as any meat dish.
A Sweet Curtain Call
For those with time (and appetite) for a little indulgence, the optional dessert at £5 is not to be missed. The chocolate mousse with olive oil, coffee, and Urfa chilli shards offers a surprisingly elegant finale. The subtle heat from the chilli pairs beautifully with the silky richness of the mousse and the fruity complexity of the olive oil – a flavour combination that’s intriguing and immensely satisfying.
The Setting and Service
Beyond the food, what makes Delamina ideal for pre-theatre dining is the ambience. The Soho Townhouse location is effortlessly stylish yet unpretentious, with warm lighting, rustic details, and a welcoming team who understand that timing is crucial when you’ve got curtain-up looming.
Service is efficient but never rushed, and the staff are happy to guide you through the menu or accommodate dietary needs. With its proximity to Covent Garden’s theatres, you’ll have no trouble getting to your seat in time, feeling well-fed, relaxed, and ready for the performance ahead.
Final Thoughts
In a city brimming with pre-theatre dining options, Delamina rises above with a menu that’s imaginative, flavourful, and surprisingly good value. Whether you’re catching a West End musical or an intimate fringe production, the perfect pre theatre menu in Covent Garden – Delamina sets the stage for an unforgettable evening.
So, next time you’re heading to the theatre, skip the rushed chain restaurant dinner and treat yourself to something a little more special. Delamina promises a feast for the senses – both on and off the stage.