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Dec,2025
London’s dinner and show packages aren’t just a night out-they’re a full sensory experience. You get a meal, a seat front row to world-class entertainment, and no hassle with booking two separate things. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, impressing a date, or treating yourself after a long week, these packages make it easy to turn an ordinary evening into something memorable.
What You Get in a Dinner & Show Package
At its core, a dinner and show package includes three things: food, drinks, and a ticket to a live performance. But the details vary wildly. Some places serve a three-course plated meal with wine pairings. Others offer buffet-style bites and cocktails. The shows range from glittering West End musicals to intimate jazz cabarets in hidden basements.
Most packages start with dinner around 6:30 PM, followed by the show at 8:30 PM. That gives you about 90 minutes to eat, chat, and unwind before the curtain rises. Some venues even let you arrive early for a pre-show drink in the lounge. The key is knowing what kind of experience you want-luxury, fun, or something in between.
Top Dinner & Show Packages in London
There are dozens of options, but only a few stand out for consistency, quality, and value. Here are the ones locals and visitors keep coming back to.
The Moulin Rouge London
Don’t confuse this with the Paris original-it’s a full-scale, high-energy tribute that opened in 2023 at the London Palladium. The show features 60 performers, 300 costumes, and a live orchestra. Dinner is a French-inspired three-course meal with champagne on arrival. Prices start at £195 per person. It’s loud, flashy, and unforgettable. Best for: groups, tourists, anyone who loves spectacle.
The Crazy Coqs at Brasserie Zédel
Hidden beneath a French brasserie in Piccadilly, this is where London’s cabaret scene feels intimate and real. The shows are smaller-think jazz singers, magicians, or comedy acts-with just 120 seats. Dinner is classic bistro fare: duck confit, steak frites, crème brûlée. You can choose between a two-course meal (£65) or three-course with wine (£85). The vibe is cozy, romantic, and slightly rebellious. Best for: couples, music lovers, people who hate crowds.
London Palladium’s Christmas Spectacular
Every December, the Palladium turns into a glittering holiday stage with singing, dancing, and celebrity guest stars. The dinner package includes a festive three-course meal and premium seating. In 2025, the show features former West End leads from Les Misérables and Wicked. Prices range from £165 to £245. It’s the most popular holiday package in the city-book early.
The Pantomime at the Dominion Theatre
For families or those who love British tradition, the Christmas pantomime is a must. Think fairy tales with slapstick humor, audience participation, and a cast that sings, dances, and jokes nonstop. Dinner packages here include a kid-friendly meal (chicken nuggets, fish fingers, ice cream) and reserved seats. Starts at £120 per adult, £85 per child. Best for: families, tourists visiting in December.
Jazz at Ronnie Scott’s + Dinner
Ronnie Scott’s isn’t just a jazz club-it’s a legend. Since 1959, it’s hosted Miles Davis, Ella Fitzgerald, and countless modern stars. Their dinner package includes a two-course British meal and a front-row seat to the 9:30 PM set. The menu changes weekly but always includes slow-cooked beef, seasonal vegetables, and a selection of British cheeses. Prices start at £110. No fancy costumes, no choreography-just world-class music and great food. Best for: jazz fans, quiet nights out, music purists.
How to Choose the Right Package
Not every dinner and show is made for everyone. Here’s how to pick one that fits your vibe.
- Want drama and dazzle? Go for The Moulin Rouge or the Palladium Christmas show. These are big, bold, and designed to wow.
- Prefer quiet and classy? Crazy Coqs or Ronnie Scott’s are your best bets. You’ll hear every note, feel every lyric.
- Bringing kids? Stick to pantomimes. Other shows are too long, too loud, or too adult for little ones.
- On a budget? Look for weekday deals. Many venues offer 20% off Tuesday or Wednesday dinners. You can find packages under £80 at Crazy Coqs or smaller jazz spots.
- Looking for romance? Book a window table at Crazy Coqs or a private booth at The Moulin Rouge. Dim lighting, live music, and good food? That’s the recipe.
What’s Not Included (And What You Should Know)
Some packages sound cheaper than they are. Watch out for these hidden costs:
- Service charges: Most venues add 12.5% service fee. Always check the fine print.
- Drink upgrades: Wine pairings or cocktails are often extra. A bottle of house wine might cost £35 on top of the package.
- Transport: Parking in central London is expensive. Use the Tube or book a taxi in advance.
- Dress code: Some places like Ronnie Scott’s and Crazy Coqs have smart casual rules. No flip-flops, no hoodies. The Moulin Rouge? Go all out-sparkles welcome.
- Refunds: Most packages are non-refundable. But many allow you to reschedule if you give 48 hours’ notice.
When to Book
Don’t wait until the last minute. Popular shows sell out weeks ahead.
- Christmas shows (December): Book by early October. The Palladium and Dominion fill up fast.
- Summer months (June-August): Popular packages like The Moulin Rouge need 4-6 weeks’ notice.
- Weekday deals (Tuesday-Thursday): These are easier to get last-minute. Some venues release unsold seats 48 hours before showtime.
Use official venue websites. Third-party sites like Ticketmaster or Viator often charge more. You’ll save money and avoid scams by booking directly.
What to Wear
London’s dinner and show scene doesn’t require tuxedos-but you should look put together.
- Smart casual: Dark jeans, blouse or button-down, nice shoes. This works for Crazy Coqs, Ronnie Scott’s, and most jazz clubs.
- Evening elegance: Dresses, suits, or cocktail attire. Required at The Moulin Rouge and the Palladium.
- Family-friendly: Kids can wear anything comfortable. Parents should still avoid shorts and tank tops.
When in doubt, dress one level up. It’s better to be slightly overdressed than under.
Why This Is Better Than Just a Show
Why not just buy a theatre ticket and grab a pub meal nearby? Because the experience changes.
When you eat at the same venue, you’re part of the atmosphere from the start. You hear the musicians tuning up. You see the stage crew setting lights. You feel the energy build as the room fills. You don’t have to rush between places. You don’t worry about missing the start because of traffic.
And the food? It’s designed to match the show. At The Moulin Rouge, you get French cuisine. At Ronnie Scott’s, you get British comfort food. The menu isn’t an afterthought-it’s part of the performance.
Final Tip: Book a Group Package
If you’re going with four or more people, call the venue directly. Most places offer group discounts-up to 15% off-for parties of six or more. You can also request special seating: center stage, private booths, or even a table near the stage for photos.
Some venues even let you customize the menu-gluten-free, vegan, or halal options are widely available if you ask in advance.
Are dinner and show packages worth the price?
Yes-if you value convenience, atmosphere, and a seamless night out. A £150 package includes a meal, drinks, and a premium ticket that might cost £80 alone. You’re paying for the experience, not just the food or the show. For special occasions, it’s often cheaper than booking two separate things and dealing with the hassle.
Can I bring children to dinner and show packages?
It depends on the show. Pantomimes are perfect for kids. Jazz clubs and cabarets like Crazy Coqs are not recommended for under-12s. The Moulin Rouge and West End musicals allow children, but some scenes may be too loud or intense for toddlers. Always check the venue’s age policy before booking.
Do I need to tip on top of the service charge?
No. Most London venues include a mandatory 12.5% service charge in the package price. Tipping is not expected unless you received exceptional service. If you did, leaving £5-£10 extra is appreciated but not required.
What’s the earliest I can arrive for dinner?
Most venues open their dining rooms 90 minutes before the show. You can usually arrive at 5:30 PM for a 7:00 PM dinner, but check your confirmation email. Some places don’t allow early entry to avoid crowding the lobby.
Are there vegan or gluten-free options?
Yes. All major venues offer dietary accommodations. When booking, select your preference (vegan, gluten-free, nut-free) during checkout. If you’re unsure, call the venue directly. They’re used to customizing meals for guests with restrictions.
Next Steps: How to Book
Start by deciding what kind of night you want. Then pick one of the top venues listed above. Go to their official website. Look for the "Dinner & Show" or "Evening Experience" section. Choose your date, number of guests, and meal option. Pay with a credit card-most require full payment upfront.
Once booked, you’ll get an email with your ticket, meal choices, and parking or transport tips. Arrive 15 minutes early. Enjoy the food. Enjoy the show. And don’t forget to take a photo in front of the marquee.
