Pre-Theatre at Bossley Before MJ the Musical

In the heart of Melbourne’s theatre district, Bossley has quickly become the go-to destination for pre-theatre dining. Just steps from the Regent Theatre, this sleek and stylish restaurant offers an experience that feels perfectly in tune with the city’s buzzing arts scene. Whether you’re looking for a quick bite before the curtain rises or a leisurely dinner to set the mood for the night ahead, Bossley has curated a menu to match the rhythm of the stage.

For those rushing from work or eager to be in their seats early, the pre-theatre menu is where Bossley really shines. Priced at $69 for two courses or $79 for three, the offering includes a glass of wine or beer and features highlights from Executive Head Chef Paul Griffiths’ repertoire. Each dish is crafted to strike a balance between bold flavour and timely service—ensuring you arrive at the theatre right on cue.

The menu is a showcase of local produce and inventive combinations. Start with small plates such as stracciatella with pear, hot honey and Turkish bread, kingfish ceviche with macadamia pangrattato, or delicate cauliflower croquettes enriched with black garlic and ricotta. Larger plates continue the performance with options like 28-day aged Gippsland rump cap with smoked bone marrow butter, grilled cauliflower steak with miso and pomegranate, or Lakes Entrance King Dory in a caper and brown butter sauce. For something hearty, the duck and chorizo ragu with fresh rigatoni is a star of the show.

Sides like crisp fries with confit garlic aioli or an iceberg and fennel salad provide the perfect supporting act, while desserts ensure a sweet finale—whether that’s Bossley’s signature Snickers creation, a classic tiramisu, or an apple and ginger crumble paired with vanilla bean ice cream.

To complete the experience, Bossley’s bar team bring theatre to the table with themed cocktails inspired by MJ the Musical. The “White Glove,” blending vanilla vodka, Passoa and white chocolate, is as smooth as the King of Pop himself, while the “Moonwalk Bramble” mixes gin, blackberry liqueur and lemon into a cocktail worthy of an encore.

The atmosphere at Bossley strikes the perfect balance between contemporary sophistication and relaxed charm, making it a natural fit for pre-theatre dining. Attentive staff ensure the timing flows seamlessly, keeping theatre-goers relaxed and ready for the show ahead.

With its prime location, stylish vibe, and menus designed with curtain call in mind, Bossley has mastered the art of setting the stage. Whether you’re moonwalking to MJ the Musical or simply soaking up the theatre district energy, this is dining that hits all the right notes.

Location: Rydges Melbourne, 186 Exhibition St, Melbourne

Phone: (03) 9635 1230

Link: bossley.com.au