Leon at Shaftesbury Avenue

What do actors do when they’re not working? Well, a fair number of them are serving behind the counter at Leon in Shaftesbury Avenue. And between dishing out the chips, they are belting out show tunes for the diners.

Leon, as most people know, is a fast food restaurant specialising in light and wholesome wraps and salads. But in addition to the great food, they are now dishing out entertainment.

The Shaftesbury Avenue branch, a few yards from Piccadilly Circus and just around the corner to the big West End theatres, is staffed by an assortment of young and glamorous singers and actors. And to draw in the crowds, they take turns to belt out numbers from shows. All of which makes it cut above your average sandwich bar. The singing is free: you only pay for the food.

I had a chargrilled chicken aioli lunchbox – a fine chicken and salad lunch – and a sultry woman sang ‘Can you feel the love tonight’ from the Lion King. Thirty minutes of escapism, some great music and a good meal for £6.95 – it must be one of the best bargains in London’s Theatreland.

Light food – simple and tasty at Leon

Singing Waitress at Leon in Shaftesbury Avenue