Pre-Theatre Dining in Soho: Japanese Dining Before a Night in the West End

A trip to the theatre is one of London’s great evening rituals. The anticipation of the curtain rising, the buzz of Soho and the West End, and, of course, deciding where to eat before the show.

For those looking for pre-theatre dining in Soho, HIMI offers a relaxed and distinctly Japanese way to begin the evening. Located on Newburgh Street, just moments from Carnaby Street and within easy reach of many of the West End's most popular theatres, HIMI is perfectly placed for dinner before curtain up.

Open from 5.30pm

The early evening is one of the best times to experience Soho. The shops are beginning to close, the bars are filling up and theatre-goers are making their way towards the West End.

HIMI opens from 5.30pm, making it an ideal choice for an early dinner before a performance. Whether you're heading to a musical, play or comedy show, you can settle in for a proper meal before making your way to the theatre.

We're close to theatres including the London Palladium, Soho Theatre, Prince Edward Theatre, Gielgud Theatre, Apollo Theatre and Lyric Theatre, as well as many more across Soho and the West End.

A Set Menu for When You Don't Want the Agony of Choice

While HIMI doesn't offer a dedicated pre-theatre menu, our set menu is a particularly good option for an early evening meal.

Designed to give you a taste of the HIMI kitchen, the menu allows you to sit back and enjoy a selection of dishes without spending too long deciding what to order. It's a great way to experience the restaurant, particularly when you have a curtain time to keep in mind.

Of course, our full à la carte menu is also available, whether you're looking for a quick bite before the show or want to make dinner part of the evening itself.

Japanese Dining in the Heart of Soho

HIMI brings together Japanese cooking, seasonal ingredients and the energy of an izakaya, all within a small restaurant just off Carnaby Street.

Expect dishes designed for sharing, alongside carefully selected sake, wine and drinks. The atmosphere is lively but relaxed – ideal for catching up over dinner before heading out into the West End.

And because you're already in the heart of Soho, the evening doesn't have to end when the curtain comes down. From post-theatre drinks to late-night bars, some of London's best nightlife is right on the doorstep.

Make a Night of It

Dinner and a show is a classic London combination, but there is no need to rush through either.

Book an early table at HIMI from 5.30pm, let us know what time your performance starts, and enjoy the beginning of your evening in Soho with good food, good drinks and great company.

Whether you're visiting the West End for a big musical, a new play or a night at Soho Theatre, HIMI is the perfect place to start the evening.

Book your table at HIMI and make a night of it.