Set in the Young Vic, this restaurant and bar offers a unique selection of food rivalling that of other eateries nearby, combined with a lively, warm atmosphere.

The Venue
The Cut Bar is set across two floors in the Young Vic Theatre with outdoor seating both downstairs and up. There are a mixture of tables, sofas and bar stools across both floors and the soft lighting creates a relaxed, informal atmosphere. It is advisable to book tables in advance, however, particularly on popular nights.

The Atmosphere
The Cut Bar has soft lighting and plays a mixture of music in the evenings and there's always a friendly hubbub of theatregoers waiting for plays to begin. Although the bar area can be busy just before a performance, fellow drinkers are usually relaxed and mostly appear to have come from work. The plays at the Yong Vic vary, but often attract television actors who perform complex plays in an intimate amphitheatre. Service in the dining areas and bar is quick and courteous. All in all, it can’t really be faulted as a pre-theatre venue.

The Food
The menu at The Cut Bar offers a mixture to suit everyone from vegetarians to meat eaters, and anyone looking for more adventurous dishes. Much of the menu is inventive and experimental, and the combinations work well. For example, the soup has a strong aroma of peanut with other spices added to give it a kick, along with a thick consistency, a must for peanut butter fans. There are also a few shellfish dishes available, one of these comes in a remarkable combination of bacon, porcini mushroom and breadcrumbs; the textured and salty accompaniments work brilliantly to give a melt in the mouth taste.

Main courses range from fish to sausages and vegetable dishes, and ingredients are of high quality and taste fresh without too many extra contents like salt, spices or sauces masking the flavour. Dishes are carefully prepared and well presented. For example, the butterbean and pumpkin stew is topped by a dramatic teepee of okra and is simple and clean on the palate.

Prices range from around £3-£5 for a starter to around £7 for simple dishes like burgers or £12 for a more complicated main. These prices are very reasonable for what tastes like home cooking and for the top quality ingredients used.

The Drink
The bar staff are happy to shake up a number of brilliant cocktails, from the classics to in-house inventions. The combinations of fresh leaves in the gin cocktail gives it a lively kick amidst a perfect balance of sweetness (these cost from around £6). Wine and beer are also available at average prices; for example, wine costs from £3.30-£4.90 per glass. Soft drinks and coffees are also available, again at reasonable prices. All in all, it’s a well stocked bar and you’ll be hard pushed not to find something to please.

The Last Word
The Cut Bar offers excellent value for money and delicious dining, whether you're intent on a pre- or post-theatre meal and drinks, or happen to just be passing by.

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