There’s nothing quite like an evening at the theatre. The lights, the costumes, the glamour! With three fantastic historic theatre venues to choose from, Cheltenham is blessed with a year-round calendar of fantastic theatrical entertainment.
And there’s no better way to make a night of it than to add on a pre- or post-show bite to eat. Here are a few of our suggestions of the best local spots to dine at before your next performance.
Images left to right - Nagomi, Sef Steakhouse (top), KIBOU (bottom).
Restaurants and cafes near Everyman Theatre, Cheltenham
Located on Regent Street, the Everyman Theatre is right at the epicentre of Cheltenham’s independent food scene.
Here you’ll find popular independent Japanese kitchen and bar KIBOU, an eclectic day-to-night eating den that has been serving up award-winning Japanese food in Cheltenham for over 10 years. Plus BAO + BBQ, a unique concept fusing smoked Texan BBQ with Taiwanese cuisine.
The Beefy Boys can be found at the upper end of the street and is home to award-winning burgers rated among the best in the world. Just around the corner is The Old Courthouse, a traditional pub restaurant housed in the beautifully renovated, Grade II listed former Cheltenham courthouse building. Or if you're craving sushi, head over to YO! Cheltenham for a vibrant, futuristic dining experience served on their signature kaiten belt.
Nagomi Japanese and Korean restaurant is a short stroll from the Everyman Theatre, offering an authentic experience with table grills, hotpot and an interactive, fun dining atmosphere. If you’re looking for that classic pub vibe, The Tavern is a perfect choice, whether you’re after a laid-back pint or some seriously good food.
A five-minute walk from the Everyman, Belgrave House Settebello in Imperial Square is a must-visit if you’re craving the flavours of Southern Italy, with the added bonus of pre-theatre drinks in their chic cocktail bar, Sotto. And just across the road, Sef Steakhouse is an independent steakhouse where you’re guaranteed premium cuts of meat, dry-aged and cooked over charcoal.
If you continue walking past Imperial Gardens, you will see the Queens Hotel, where you can dine at Victoria’s restaurant and enjoy British flavours combined with international flair. Or try the chic French menu at neighbouring Brasserie Blanc. Then on the opposite side of the Promenade is No. 131, with The Terrace offering a range of menus, including green and vegan options, and high-end Japanese food at YOKU.
Or head the The Brewery Quarter for a range of bars and restaurants perfect for pre-theatre dining. Pho serves healthy Vietnamese dishes, while Mowgli provides a taste of India with warm, twinkling lights to illuminate your evening. The Alchemist restaurant offers an experimental, theatrical drinking experience, and Flight Club has a lively atmosphere with tasty food.
Images left to right - Tailors (top), Prithvi (bottom), Mr Cambray Curiosity (top), The Alchemist at The Brewery Quarter (bottom).
Restaurants and cafes near the Cheltenham Playhouse
Situated just across the road from the Bath Parade car park, Cheltenham Playhouse is conveniently located, with a range of restaurants nearby to choose from.
For a memorable dining experience, look no further than Prithvi. Located just metres away from the theatre, Prithvi offers fine dining flair with South-Asian flavours under the guidance of Michelin-trained chef Thomas Law.
For a tempting taste of Thailand, carry on to the High Street and turn right for The Vine, a green-tiled Victorian pub serving local real ales and delicious Thai dishes. Or continue down that road to Bangkok Thai for the most authentic Thai cuisine in Cheltenham.
Meanwhile, those looking for a cosy Cotswold pub atmosphere with classic, affordable comfort food should head the other way to Tailor’s pub and restaurant on Cambray Place. Opposite Tailors is Mr Cambray’s Curiosity, a coffee shop by day which turns into a cocktail bar with colourful themed rooms at night. And just around the corner is Petite Coco, an intimate bistro tucked away below street level which serves traditional French fare.
Images left to right - The Ivy Montpellier Brasserie, The Tivoli (top), Chaplais Kitchen (bottom).
Restaurants and cafes near Bacon Theatre
Being a bit further out of the centre than the other two venues means that dinner and a show at the Bacon Theatre can require a bit more planning. But there are still lots of lovely restaurants nearby if you’re happy to travel a little bit further.
Cheltenham's Montpellier District is roughly a 20-minute stroll or five-minute drive from the Bacon Theatre. The home of stylish, independent eateries and familiar favourite restaurants, theatregoers are spoilt for choice for places to wine and dine in Montpellier.
You can’t miss the iconic Ivy Montpellier Brasserie in the stunning Grade I-listed Rotunda building. It features a private dining room and bar, offering relaxed yet sophisticated all-day dining. While opposite, the Montpellier Wine Bar & Bistro serves a large selection of international wines coupled with delicious food.
A few doors down you’ll find Chaplais Kitchen for tasty, uncomplicated deli-fresh fare, and just beyond that is the Montpellier Courtyard. This is home to local favourite café Lazy Graze and independent restaurant Sam's Montpellier, which serves tasty Mediterranean small plates using fresh ingredients from the earth, land and sea.
There are also several popular chain restaurants in Montpellier, including Cote and Giggling Squid. Or if you fancy a country pub, The Tivoli on Andover Road offers locally sourced British food, a spacious bar and a relaxed courtyard.
Of course, these are just a few suggestions for pre-theatre dining. Cheltenham has heaps of incredible restaurants all over town. So, wherever you choose to eat before your next show, we're sure it will be delicious!