BIRMINGHAM REP'S NEW BISTRO

How important is it for theatres to have good restaurant and bar facilities? In my blog on 25 September 2013, I was very critical of the catering at the Birmingham Repertory Theatre,  particularly the bars and pre-theatre restaurant and in two years the situation has not improved significantly. (see:http://therealfoodinspector.blogspot.co.uk/2013/09/birmingham-repertory-theatre-take-hip.html ) However, I was thrilled to hear this week that a brand new bistro and bar called Marmalade opens there in February.   The entire restaurant is to be refurbished with eclectic furnishing, bold décor and soft mood lighting as a warm and welcoming back drop to delicious, locally sourced food at affordable prices. The pre-theatre dining menu starts at just £15.95 for two courses and £19.95 for three courses and is already available for pre-booking. Menus are available at: http://www.birmingham-rep.co.uk/food-and-drink/ However Marmalade is open to anyone looking for good food whether or not they attend the theatre. They will also offer a well-stocked bar providing a quality selection of beers and wines as well as an exciting cocktail menu of classics and new mixology, plus a café serving great coffee, snacks and cakes.   The current  'Rep Eats' will only be opening pre-show for afternoon and evening performances between now and when it closes down completely on 31 January at 7.30pm. For a short period after that, whilst they refurbish the space in preparation for Marmalade’s arrival,  they’ll operate mobile bars inside the foyers and sell ice creams, sweets, chocolates and other goodies from their shop, 'Treats'.    You can book your pre-theatre dining package at Marmalade in the following ways: Online - by adding a dinner package to your basket when buying your tickets. By phone – by requesting a pre-theatre dining package when talking to one of the box office team on 0121 236 4455   If you’re not a theatregoer but just love great food, Marmalade is open to everyone. For general non-theatre related bookings then call 0121 245 2080.