Nestled along the busy and rather unattractive Southwark Street is this unusual restaurant and theatre combo. Not quite singing for your supper, but close.

The Venue
The Menier Chocolate Factory is certainly a visually appealing haven in the midst of the grey dreariness of London Bridge. A large, attractive building rises up along Southwark Street with a huge banner pronouncing ‘The Chocolate Factory.’

The restaurant itself is certainly very beautiful. The tables are nicely spaced out around the edge of the room, with a large, raised dais in the centre. It’s a good idea to go for a table here if you want to experience the warmth and attractiveness of the room. There’s an open kitchen in the back with cheerful chefs hard at work and there are small cooking stations dotted all around. Some of the productions that have been performed in the above theatre have later moved on to big successes at the West End, so it’s a good idea to catch them here before they move on and become expensive.

The Atmosphere
The atmosphere here depends on when you choose to eat. Pick a time when the show is about to start and it will be filled with excited, buzzing pre-theatre goers. However, go early week or during a show and the Menier Chocolate Factory can appear subdued – if not empty, although the friendly staff do their best to raise your spirits and are happy and attentive.

The Food
Menier Chocolate Factory isn’t, in fact, a factory for chocolate, which might disappoint! They serve a varied menu that includes everything from burgers and steaks to seafood linguine and Haddock pie. Although not the longest menu in London, there is something for everyone. However, your experience of the restaurant will very much depend on what you order. Choose well and you could enjoy a starter of delicious prawns, followed by a sumptuous, well-cooked steak and good-sized side dishes. Choose poorly and you might have a bitter salad, followed by an overly salty fish pie. Some dishes are wonderful, some are really just below par. And for a restaurant that charges around £12 per main, how reasonable you find the price will depend on what you eat. That said, the desserts are very tasty, and be sure to try the brownie on which they spell out Chocolate Factory in cocoa powder. A charming touch. Keep an eye out for their theatre meal-deals that are excellent value for money.

The Drink
The drinks menu is very standard with all the usual suspects. The wine list is reasonable and you could spend around £20 on an excellent bottle of wine. Coffees for after your meal are also available and are really delicious.

The Last Word
The Menier Chocolate Factory is an interesting and unique concept, only marred by the unreliable nature of the food served up.

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