Cafe and Bar
Whether you are seeing a show, looking for a creative space to work, or searching for your new favourite spot to eat and drink in Waterloo, we’ve got you covered.
Open from 8am Mon–Fri and 10am on Saturdays, join us for drinks, breakfast, lunch and dinner.
See below a sample of our menus:
Backstage Cafe & Bar
By day, it’s a relaxed neighbourhood hub with coffee, workspace and fresh seasonal food. By night, it transforms into a vibrant bar and restaurant for pre-show dining, post-show conversation and late night drinks.
Backstage is located in the new building connected to The Old Vic, you can find it on Waterloo Road. If you are facing The Old Vic, Waterloo Road is the street to the right of the building. Look out for the bright banners, you can follow these down to the entrance. The front of the building is also decorated with colourful stage lights known as ‘Barn Doors’.
By Day
Backstage is a bright, open space, ideal for working, meetings or catching up with friends and family.
- Artisan coffee
- Breakfast & lunch – to go and sit-down options
- Spacious seating
- Free WiFi & plug points
- Free Script Library
- Outdoor terrace
By Night
As the evening draws in, Backstage transforms. Join us for a seasonal dinner menu, crafted cocktails and a warmly lit, relaxed atmosphere.
- Table service dining
- Bookings available for evening dining
- Classic cocktails, wines and beers
- No and low-alcohol options
- Outdoor terrace
Booking
Email backstageenquiries@oldvictheatre.com to pre-book your table. We also accept walk-ins on our mezzanine level.
Backstage Cafe & Bar Opening Hours
Mon–Wed 8am–11pm
Thu & Fri 8am–12am
Sat 10am–12am
(Closed Sunday)
The Old Vic Cafe & Bar
Located inside our iconic building, The Old Vic Cafe & Bar, Penny, is the perfect place to grab a drink or snack before a show or during the interval.
During show times, the foyer bar, Borthwick bar and Baylis bar will also be open for audience members.
We have on offer:
- Speciality gins
- No and low-alcohol options
- Craft beers from leading local brewers
- Sustainably sourced spirits
The bar will open an hour before your showtime.
The bars close after the interval of our evening performances. If you would like a place for a post-show catch up or drink, head next door to our new Backstage building.
Accessibility
The Old Vic’s Cafe & Bar is accessible via the lift from the entrance on Webber Street.
Backstage Cafe & Bar includes step-free access, a lift to all floors and power operated doors at the entrance and out to terraces.