Seemor
Opera TavernA-Worth Trying
23 Catherine St, London WC2B 5JS
· Restaurant, Bar
· 4.7/5 Google (1655 reviews)
Reservations
Stylish Covent Garden tapas with polished service and creative small plates; great pre-theatre choice though portions are modest and pricing can feel high for some.
Why it gets an A- for overall quality
Opera Tavern delivers exceptional food quality and outstanding service attentiveness that position it competitively with London's better neighborhood restaurants. Tight seating and close tables prevent higher grades, while occasional consistency lapses in execution keep it from grade A territory. The pre-theatre location and stylish upstairs setting make it a reliable choice for West End dining, though not a destination in its own right.
Restaurant Summary
In the heart of Covent Garden, Opera Tavern hums with pre-show anticipation and clinking glasses, a room that feels warm and stylish without trying too hard. Service gets real affection here; one diner raved, "Our server made the night feel effortless," and several named team members pop up for thoughtful hospitality. If you are heading to the theatre, timing and flow generally work in your favor. The cooking leans modern Mediterranean tapas with Spanish and Italian cues rather than strict tradition, a creative small-plates approach where pork belly, ox cheeks with truffle mash, and garlicky prawns headline. Plates are polished and well-sourced, though a few guests note occasional misses like greasy broccoli or over-eager pacing. Expect refined flavors, attractive presentation, and a menu that rewards sharing over a leisurely chat. Families can make it work thanks to approachable items like croquetas, chicken, and aubergine parmigiana, but this is still adult-leaning tapas. There is no stated kids menu, portions are modest, and flavors can be bold; pick simpler dishes if little diners prefer familiar comforts.
At a Glance
- Attentive, knowledgeable service with memorable staff interactions
- Creative Spanish-Italian tapas with standout slow-braised dishes
- Portions are modest and costs climb with multiple plates
- Seating can feel tight and pacing occasionally rushed
- Creative/fusion menu - not traditional comfort food
What Sets It Apart
- covent_garden_pre_theatre_strength
- polished_team_with_named_service
- spanish_italian_tapas_mix
- upstairs_window_perch
What People Love
- Feeling genuinely looked after by named staff
- Rich, comforting braises like ox cheek
- Vibrant seafood plates and clever veg dishes
- Elegant upstairs ambiance with street views
Points of Concern
- Tight seating and close tables reduce comfort during busy waves
- Portions can feel small relative to price; plan on 2-3 plates each
- Occasional execution dips (greasy broccoli, warm cava) on peak nights
- Creative/fusion menu - not traditional comfort food; limited options for conservative palates
- Review patterns show signs of potential manipulation (enthusiastic language, many staff shout-outs) which may not reflect every visit
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost£42-60 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Pair a fish plate (£13-15) with a braise (£16-18) and a veg (£9-12) per person; share tiramisu (£8).
- Pescatarians: tuna or hake plus tempura broccoli and burrata make a balanced lineup.
Perfect For
- Pre-theatre dinner with polished service
- Cocktails and small plates at the bar
- Date night in Covent Garden
- Work socials with set menus
Location Insights
Area: Bustling theatre district with tourists and office crowds; stylish, pre-theatre energy.
Safety: Busy, well-lit, high foot traffic; generally safe even late after shows.
Nearby: Steps from West End theatres, near Covent Garden Market, bars, and boutique shopping.
Covent GardenThe dining scene in Covent Garden is diverse, featuring everything from casual eateries and street food to upscale restaurants and trendy bars. The area buzzes with activity, especially in the evenings, catering to visitors attending nearby theatres and enjoying the bustling market atmosphere.
Seven DialsSeven Dials is a distinctive micro-neighborhood within Covent Garden, known for its unique layout of seven converging streets, boutique shops, and a mix of independent and high-end dining options, creating an intimate yet lively dining environment.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday12:00–23:00
Tuesday12:00–23:00
Wednesday12:00–23:00
Thursday12:00–23:00
Friday12:00–23:00
Saturday12:00–23:00
Sunday12:00–20:00
Available: Reservations
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