Much-loved, rich and ornate, modern, sleek, grand and versatile, the theatres of the East End are surrounded by exceptional hotels and the best of Melbourne’s culinary scene, with options a plenty to tantalise any palate before the curtain call.

As the city prepares to welcome School of Rock, Jersey Boys and Harry Potter and the Cursed Child this summer, here is a sample of highlights from across the precinct.

Annam: Jerry Mai serves up modern Vietnamese near Chinatown and is the perfect spot for lunch and dinner. 56 Little Bourke St, Melbourne VIC 3000, (03) 9654 6627

Bodega Underground: A restaurant serving the best of Mexico in the heart of Chinatown. 55 Little Bourke St, Melbourne VIC 3000, (03) 9650 9979

Butcher’s Diner: A 24-hour diner perfect for an after-show bite or takeaway burger. 10 Bourke St, Melbourne VIC 3000, (03) 9639 7324

Cecconi’s: Diners can settle down in a spacious monochrome space, a modern Italian menu, slick décor and a cellar bar. 61 Flinders Ln, Melbourne VIC 3000, (03) 8663 0500

Chin Chin: Those craving Asian flavours can head to Melbourne’s famed Asian-fusion restaurant with a bar called GoGo downstairs for good measure. 125 Flinders Ln, Melbourne VIC 3000, (03) 8663 2000

Cumulus Inc: Whether it's a matinee or a night show, diners can head to this all-day eatery and bar by iconic Melbourne chef Andrew McConnell. 45 Flinders Ln, Melbourne VIC 3000,  (03) 9650 1445

Garcon Paris Steakhouse: A classic French menu complemented by wines from across Victoria and the regions of France. 6 Alfred Pl, Melbourne VIC 3000, (03) 9654 8184

Gazi: From George Colombaris, this is a no-frills, no-fuss, bar and restaurant serving Greek masterpieces. 2 Exhibition St, Melbourne VIC 3000, (03) 9207 7444

Gingerboy: A vibrant bar and restaurant with a menu that features a modern twist on Asian street food. 27-29 Crossley St, Melbourne VIC 3000, (03) 9662 4200

Ishizuka: An upmarket dining experience inspired by the world of Japanese haute cuisine known as Kaiseki. Basement Level b01/139 Bourke St, Melbourne VIC 3000, (03) 8594 0895

Izakaya Den: A local favourite, partrons will have to look closely for the nearly unmarked entrance to find this Japanese izakaya-style tapas bar. 114 Russell St, Melbourne VIC 3000,(03) 9654 2977

Dine before the curtain call

Melbourne’s East End Theatre District is a one-of-a-kind location in Australia, with four leading ladies - Her Majesty’s, the Regent, Princess and Comedy Theatres - complemented by the Forum and Athenaeum Theatre, collectively offering theatregoers and music lovers a stunning precinct showcasing the best in the performing arts.