In a sleek but comfortable setting on the lower level of One Aldwych Hotel, Axis serves delicious international cuisine. It’s a good choice before or after theatre at the National. Axis, located at the corner of the Strand and Waterloo Bridge, is a short walk across the Thames to the theatre. To entice early diners, there’s a well-priced pre-theatre menu, and the service is fast and efficient. It’s also quieter early in the evening. Favorites: arugula, mozzarella, and fig salad; crispy duck salad; grilled organic salmon.

Located in charming Covent Garden, this lovely 58-room hotel is walking distance from the Royal Opera House and West End theatres. There is a well-equipped modern gym and spa services as well as a restaurant, private dining rooms, and screening room. If you like to sleep with the windows open, be advised that there may be street noise.

Another outpost for chef Joel Robuchon’s elegant French cuisine where a meal can be organized around a series of appetizers or the more traditional appetizer and main course. As in the original Paris restaurant, there is a choice of seating at a bar or a table, but here the restaurant is divided into separate floors. On the ground floor is casual seating around an open kitchen, and upstairs is traditional table seating for which reservations are taken. It’s an inspired choice for a light meal before or after theatre. Favorites: egg cocotte with a light mushroom puree; layered crab and avocado.

An elegant shop offering unique perfumes, soaps, candles, and lotions in an array of fragrances including citrus, floral and wood.  Special teas are sold as well

This tiny shop carries a dazzling array of English cheeses. There is also a shop in Borough Market.

A 105-room modern boutique hotel located that’s convenient if you want to stay near National Theatre, Covent Garden, and the National Gallery. In addition to the gracious staff, there is a fitness center, lap pool, and two highly regarded restaurants, Axis, and Indigo.

Convenient for pre- or post-theatre dinner, this cozy yet lively restaurant specializes in fish and seafood. The food is good, and the service prompt and efficient. It’s also possible to book a seat at the bar which is a good choice for a quick pre-theatre supper. Favorites: gravlax with marinated cucumber; razor clams with chorizo, broad beans, and wild garlic; mushy peas; roast whole gilthead bream; heritage tomato salad.

Fish, fish, fish served in a casual, lively setting known for prompt and friendly service. There are also chicken and pasta dishes and a special menu for children. If you’re yearning for fish and chips, this is the place to try. Favorites: fish and chips; grilled whole Mediterranean sea bass; raw seafood platters; tuna carpaccio.

The organic skin and aromatherapy products found in these charming shops located throughout London make an excellent gift.

A London institution which maintains its aura by making it incredibly difficult to get a reservation during prime hours. It’s a good choice pre-theatre. The food is Modern British cuisine, and the restaurant is always buzzing, but we’ve found our dinner more enjoyable when we’ve gone with friends known to the staff. Favorites: Thai baked sea bass; Scandinavian iced berries with white hot chocolate sauce.