From binge-watching Succession to buzzing about the new Barbie film, it comes as no surprise that we’ve grown to become quite the movie and television buffs. And the UK is celebrating that with a tonne of eateries inspired by all our favourite Hollywood classics. Whether you’re a Potterhead or just fancy yourself the occasional Friends rewatch, grab your popcorn and relish in the nostalgia as we break down the best TV and movie-themed restaurants and bars in the UK.
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Park Row: Batman
Soho, London
Big fan of the Batman movies? Park Row exceeds all our expectations when it comes to novelty restaurants in the UK. Situated on Brewer Street in Soho, this DC Comics dining experience has several nods to Gotham City from the lounge being named Pennyworth's to the retro art deco and incredible secret library entrance.
You'll feel like you're dining right in Gotham City....watch out for the joker.
Frankenstein: Frankenstein Bier Keller
Old Town, Edinburgh
Based on the Mary Shelley classic novel and film, Frankenstein Bier Keller is one of the most unusual restaurants in the UK. The Edinburgh spot is located in an eerie gothic church on St George IV Bridge, and if that wasn’t spooktastic enough, the frightening 1931 movie plays on screens above the bar. Stay for a while and you might get a glimpse of the monster himself to make it a truly immersive dining experience.
When it comes to horror restaurants in the UK, this one is up there with the best.
ABQ: Breaking Bad
Hackney, London
It's time to dust off your yellow jumpsuits and channel your inner Walter White. In London, ABQ showcases a molecular cocktail-making experience inspired by the highly-addictive Breaking Bad. Partnered with Hackney Funhouse, the venue is serving sourdough pizzas, alongside espresso martinis. You’ll also get to cook up a few tipples yourself in an RV. Yeah, science!
Dine on sumptuous pizzas after creating crystal...erhh I mean cocktails at ABQ.
Archie's: Licence To Drive
Birmingham, Liverpool, Leeds, Manchester
Ever wanted to try out those cool restaurants in movies? Fronting locations in Birmingham, Manchester, Leeds and Liverpool, Archie's is halal diner based on the fictional LA restaurant in Licence to Drive. Decked out with pink décor, the Instagrmmable haven knocks up everything from hot Cheetos burgers to loaded tater tots and milkshakes named after celebs.
This 80s-themed restaurant will be sure to knock your socks off.
Bonkers Bar: Charlie and The Chocolate Factory
Dalston, London
Grew up watching Roald Dahl films? If so, we’ve got one of the coolest cocktail experiences influenced by a childhood classic. Situated in Dalston, Billy Bonker and the Cocktail Factory is a fab event where you’ll get a chance to win a 'golden packet'. Those lucky enough to nab one will sample two confectionery-themed sips while soaking in every moment at this immersive show.
For movie themed bars near you? This gem takes the cake.
Central Perk: Friends
City Centre, Manchester
IN LONDON? No, no Central Perk is actually located inside a Primark in Manchester and it’s bringing back all the 90s feels. Decked out with a couch resembling the iconic one from Friends, this cosy place is great for lounging and snapping tonnes of Insta-worthy pictures. And to eat? Get stuck into a New York-style menu filled to the brim with sandwiches, pancakes and delicious pizza.
Whether you're a Rachel, Monica or Chandler (def not a Ross), this Manchester spot is for everyone.
Taste Film: Various Films
Kensal Green, London
Taking smell-o-vision one step further, Taste Film hosts a tonne of immersive dining experiences at Kensal Rise restaurant The Parlour. The concept here is simple. As you watch a screening of a cult classic, you’ll enjoy a ‘moment to meal’ set menu – meaning you’ll get to eat the same food and drinks as they appear in the film. From nibbling on chocolate frogs in Harry Potter to trying Ratatouille’s iconic French cuisine, this one is perfect for quirky date nights.
Tickets go for £75 per person at this immersive dining experience.
The Biscuit Factory: Alice In Wonderland
Leith, Edinburgh
Feeling curious? Maybe curiouser? Head down to The Biscuit Factory and immersive yourself in an Alice in Wonderland pop-up from the 2nd to the 6th of August. You'll get to enjoy a fun tea party experience, complete with wonderous cocktails, themed challenges and an 'Eat Me' treat. You might even come across the Queen of Hearts or Mad Hatter himself.
Don't be late...
Speedy's Cafe: Sherlock Holmes
Camden, London
If you're a fan of the Sherlock Holmes series, then you're in Sher-luck at Speedy's Cafe. The BBC series was filmed right on North Gower Street, and not only is this cafe famous for Holmes and Watson's frequent visits to the London spot, but it now serves themed menu items such as the Sherlock wrap and Moriar-tea. Another fun fact? The owner frequently gets mail addressed to Cumberbatch's character.
It's elementary my darling when it comes to good grub at Speedy's.
The Office Bar & Restaurant: Peaky Blinders
Castle Hill, Dudley
Created by a self-confessed Peaky Blinder stan, The Office Bar & Restaurant is a must-visit venue for fans of the hit drama. Settle into this vintage joint for a blast from the past as you take in velvet interiors, rustic murals and more décor inspired by the series. Along with all the 1900s costumes and classical music, it serves delicious fare, making for one of the best restaurants based on TV shows.
This Dudley venue will take you back to 1919.
Like these unique destinations? Check out more quirky places to head to in the UK here. And for all the latest openings, sign up to our newsletter.
