Brits expect encore and more from dinner dates

Cash-conscious diners aren’t quite singing for their suppers, but they are demanding opera with their hors d’oeuvres and divas serving dessert. Bel Canto Restaurant has seen a surge in customers for their famous opera dinners, where future stars of the opera world serve the food and also sing popular arias from Verdi, Puccini and Mozart.

The £55 a head menu provides the perfect value antidote to rushed pre-theatre meals and £600 seats at the Royal Opera House.

“Music and food are delicacies that should not be rushed,” says owner Jean-Paul Maurel. “At Bel Canto diners are invited to take their time and absorb the sensory experience our expert singers and chefs create.”

Already a hit in Paris, Bel Canto is earning a growing reputation as the place to hear the best opera up close and personal. The restaurant – which serves French cuisine – attracts young singing stars from around the globe hungry, letting them gain valuable live performance experience as well as earn a crust.

At regular intervals during the evening up to four of the performers will burst into song, moving between tables while belting out and many more.

“The effect on our customers is a joy to see. Even those who are experiencing opera for the first time are visibly moved by the evening,” says Maurel.

“It’s not just a business for us, but a passion. Many people have an image of opera as being elitist and expensive. At Bel Canto we are proud to offer affordable fine dining combined with unique performances.”

Bel Canto is located at Minster Court, Mark Lane, (Off Fenchurch Street), London, EC3R 7AA.