We took advantage of Marmalade's pre-opening 50% off trial deal as we needed to have dinner before seeing a show at the REP.

This new venue has been fitted out very quickly on the ground floor of the theatre, looking out on Centenary Square, but it feels like it's been there for ages. Cosy interior, wooden panelling and floors and big heavy curtains are all lit by loads of oversized lamps and those fancy bulbs that everywhere seems to have these days! Loads of seating options too, from booths, to benches and long group tables to smaller tables for two.

The pre-show menu is a great mix of twists on traditional dishes. The ham-hock has brie in it for example, and was delicious and salty with a creamy texture from the cheese. The desert came with a VERY generous portion of chocolate sauce and the chicken main course was cooked and flavoured to perfection.

We didn't get to try the cocktails on this occasion, but the range looked really interesting and judging by the Bitters'n'Twisted team's track record, you wouldn't be disappointed.

In all, the whole experience was very smooth and the timing of the dishes fitted perfectly between arriving after work, and having to get into the theatre for the show. It was efficient and friendly without feeling rushed at any point.

It's awesome to have a new place to eat which isn't a big chain in the Broad St/Brindleyplace area of town too. Great work.

Wifi (free) and cloakroom facilities (£1 per item, not outside show times) are available via The REP.

Great food. Friendly, helpful staff. I went just before a show, convenient place to eat as it's in the REP theatre.