Colonel Saab: Pre-Theatre Dining Menu ★★★★★ Trafalgar Square | Until August 23, 2025


Finding that perfect pre-show supper can be a bit perplexing. You want something satisfying, but not sleep-inducing – a meal that is served promptly, but definitely not fast food. Fortunately, there is Colonel Saab's pre-theatre dining menu which neatly meets these criteria. We reserved for 17:30 and arrived to our show at 19:30, leaving sated, but not stuffed. The meal begins with a refreshing vodka and lime cocktail that has just a dash of raspberry syrup, adding a touch of sweetness. To complement these drinks, there are some light, creamy, roasted cumin amuse-bouches served on warm buns, and then it is down to business. For starters, I ordered the Jaipuri Baby Aloo which proved to be nicely spiced, crispy baby potatoes served with a side of sour cream, while my companion had the Noor Mahal Chicken Tikka which was a juicy, fork-tender chicken tikka served with dip and lime. For mains, we decided to share the Prawn Moilee and Butter Chicken. The former was a succulent, lightly spiced coconut milk curry while the latter was the classic dish served in a delicious tomato cashew sauce that puts the commercial products to shame. With these mains we opted for some wonderfully fluffy garlic naan bread which had a lovely straight-from-the-oven texture and flavour. For afters, we both enjoyed the Chakka Varattiyathu Tart, a ripe jackfruit halwa confection served with luscious mango sorbet, popping pearls and raspberry crumble. The tart was not overly sweet and was exactly the right partner to the rich main dishes. We also appreciated the fact that the menu clearly indicated the vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, dairy-free and nut-free options. For us, Colonel Saab's pre-theatre dining menu has clearly established itself as an ideal curtain raiser, whatever entertainment option we might be enjoying.

Rated: ★★★★★

Reviewed by J.C.
Image: Courtesy of Colonel Saab

When, Where, Getting there:
Map & Location: 40, 42 William IV St, London WC2N 4DD, UK

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