When it comes to touristy activities in London, I’m not the biggest fan. I may have lived in the city all my life, but somehow I have never found myself on the London Eye, visited Buckingham Palace or caught the changing of the guard at the Tower of London. However, there is one thing I absolutely love – and that’s the theatre. There’s just something about being a part of an excitable crowd, gathering in a historic theatre – prosecco in hand – and experiencing a memorable performance. So when the opportunity arose to watch Chicago the Musical and dine at the iconic Waldorf Hotel, I couldn’t say no.
Luxury settings in Homage at The Waldorf.
Dinner was in the heart of Covent Garden’s theatreland, at The Waldorf Hilton’s Homage restaurant. We visited on a Thursday, when the special menu is accompanied by singer Blue Rose, who performs musical numbers while a pianist plays in elegant surroundings. The decadent interior features grand chandeliers and striking pillars, while attentive staff go above and beyond with every detail.
A special cocktail menu features Chicago themed drinks, in celebration of the Waldorf’s partnership with the musical. We went for The Chicago Fizz (£9) – a sharp and fruity blend of gin, port, citrus and sugar, topped with prosecco, before ordering a bottle of house white wine – which was equally refreshing. Our glasses were never empty, as the friendly waiters were always on hand for a top up.
Cocktails are inspired by Chicago's legendary musical numbers.
Inspired by the flavours from many different cultures, the menu includes a variety of highlights. The pre-theatre selection has been revamped, featuring standout starters like pan fried scallops (£16) with BBQ cauliflower, smoked bacon, sweetcorn and pink grapefruit providing a light yet rich flavour. Having recently acquired a newfound love for scotch eggs, I had to go for the scotched hen’s egg (£12) which is paired with asparagus, chive and truffle and tasted just as delicious as I imagined.
For the main event, we chose the black olive and ricotta cannelloni (£20) which is topped with a flavourful romesco sauce, sunkissed tomatoes, crumbled feta and roasted artichoke. The grilled fillet of sea bass (£27) is roasted in a creamy lemon thyme butter and sits atop a creamy lobster risotto cooked with parsley and chive, spinach and tomato crisps.
It's all about style AND substance.
The real razzle dazzle comes in the form of the stunning desserts. Not only are they beautifully presented, but they taste even better than they look. The Kentish strawberry mousse (£11) is layered with elderflower jelly and served with a pink champagne sorbet and rose petals, while the velvety bitter chocolate fondant (£12) with black cherry compote and ripple sorbet stole the show and was the perfect ending to an impressive meal.
The DesignMyNight Digest
The Phoenix Theatre is located a short walk from the grandeur of Aldwych and it’s a stroll that you’ll appreciate after stuffing your face. I loved Chicago when I watched it on the West End years ago, but this performance was even better. The cast has nailed each number; from the choreography, to the solos and it doesn’t hurt to have the star power of the Oscar-winning Cuba Gooding Jr. – who is soon to be replaced with Martin Kemp. Whether you’re looking for a great gift, a new date spot, or simply hoping to spice up your Thursday evening, I’d highly recommend a night of wining and dining at The Waldorf… and all that jazz.
The pre-theatre offer is available at Homage, The Waldorf Hilton, Aldwych, London WC2B 4DD every day between 5.30pm and 6.15pm.
