Red Rooms: Pre-theatre experience was worthy of an Olivier

Feb 29 2008 By Lady Who Lunches

THERE seems to be a sense of occasion if one treats oneself and friends before a theatre show and that is exactly what I did last week before watching the Perth Theatre’s production of “Mice and Men”, incidentally a very moving and excellently performed play.

However, back to the main event.

Four of us arrived at the theatre restaurant and were greeted by a cheery waitress who showed us to a corner table on the raised part of the restaurant.

On reflection I’m glad it was in this part, as the bar area seemed dark and slightly dowdy whereas the area we were in was well lit and had a glitter ball turning continually which made one feel one was at a dance in the 60s.

The menu was very good value, £14.50 for two courses and coffee/tea or £18.50 for three courses and coffee/tea.

Obviously we went for the three courses (simply for review purposes of course).

Two chose prawn cocktail, one lentil soup and the other grilled mackerel for their starter.

They arrived promptly and were a good start to the meal. Everyone enjoyed their first course and this gave an added anticipation for the second course.

We all chose different dishes.

The choices were so good that it was difficult to make up one’s mind.

When the meals arrived they all looked scrumptious and tasted that too.

Belly pork done to perfection and a very good portion size, salmon, lamb stew and finally a Caesar Salad with an original twist in that the chicken breast was served whole, with no croutons but two slices of toast! However it tasted delicious.

This was all assisted on its way with a bottle of house red, Obikwa Pinotage.

We all wanted puddings but felt we couldn’t manage to eat one after the generous portions previously served.

However the waitress suggested we had pudding at the interval with our coffee.

What a great idea.

We ordered rhubarb and ginger crumble, vanilla cheesecake and pear usually served with red wine and chocolate but on request the chocolate was left out.

When we appeared at our table at the interval it was ready for us and the pudding arrived as we did along with our coffee.

They were delicious especially the pear which just melted in the mouth.

Although the play was heart-wrenching and dramatic, having comfort food before and during the performance was a good idea.

This helped to make it a great evening out.

The venue is highly recommended as the staff are so helpful and friendly, the food is very good and you get to the production on time without having to worry about parking the car when every one else is also looking for a space.

Venue: Red Rooms, Perth Theatre, 185 High Street, Perth

Cost: £80.25 for four

Food: Well-priced,delicious

Service: Helpful and friendly

Decor: Loved the glitter ball

Verdict: Look no further for a pre-theatre meal