You’ve booked your tickets, picked out your fanciest outfit and you’re all set for a night at the theatre.
But the one thing you might not have thought to have planned in advance is where to visit for your pre-theatre drink. It has to be somewhere suitably swish, of course, to fit with the tone of the evening. And we’d prefer it to be somewhere central, near to the buzz of the city and the atmosphere of the West End.
So, now we’ve whittled down a sort of shortlist, it’s time to show you some of our top picks for a Grand Marnier cocktail before your evening of culture kicks off.
The Ivy Soho/ Tower Bridge
You’ll find fancy artworks, classy colour schemes and marble interiors at The Ivy Brasserie. A well-loved choice for a special occasion, it’s the perfect place to visit before your trip to the theatre. Come along to try the Classic Champagne cocktail.
Disrepute
This 60’s-inspired haunt is hidden away in Soho and is known for its jewel-coloured interiors and cocktails. It’s technically a member’s bar but allows walk-ins and bookings from non-members dependent on availability. Although you could describe Disrepute as ‘cosy’ rather than spacious, its size suits the atmosphere with its exclusive nature and you can’t say no to the aperitif offered on arrival. Come along for Grand Marnier’s Grand 75 cocktail before your visit to the theatre.
Kettner’s Townhouse
If the flower-filled surroundings don’t convince you to come for a drink at Kettner’s Townhouse then the excellent service and ambiance will. This impressive venue was first opened by Auguste Kettner, chef to Napoleon III in 1867, so you know the food and drinks are of top-notch quality. Ask for a Kettner’s Fizz champagne cocktail for a classy start to your evening.
Rules
If you weren’t in the know (and the picture didn’t give it away), Rules is the oldest restaurant in the whole of London. So it’s worth coming along to tick that one off of your bucket-list, if nothing else. But it’s a treat on the eyes when you’re inside because the food is delicious and the drinks are equally as impressive. Try their typically-British dishes of game and oysters while making yourself comfortable on the plush seats. Pair your meal with a Grand Marnier cocktail for the full works. Here, you’ll find “Bitter Sweet Love” made up of Grand Marnier, Campari, Cocchi Rosa, Cinzano Orancio, and “The Cosmic”: Grand Marnier and Cam and topped with Champagne.
Frederick’s
Frederick’s has an airy, open feel that we’ve been hard-pressed to find in many other London restaurants. The staff are friendly, the service is faultless, and there’s enough nature to make you feel almost like you’re outside. And that’s before we even get started on the food and drinks. Come along for two truly excellent Grand Marnier cocktails – the Grand Fizz and the Grand Martini.
Aubaine
But we couldn’t round off this list without mentioning the Crème de la Crème of fancy, pre-theatre London bars. Aubaine, in Mayfair, is an Instagrammer’s dream, with perfectly arranged plates that look just as good as they taste. This typically French restaurant has the dècor to match and is perfectly paired with a Grand Marnier before you head off to watch the show.
This article was sponsored by Grand Marnier. 18+ only. Please drink responsibly. For all the facts, visit drinkaware.co.uk.