Rainforest Cafe

This ever-popular theme-restaurant on Shaftesbury Avenue is firmly geared toward kids, its simulated-jungle setting – complete with animatronic animals – still well capable of eliciting wide eyes and dropped jaws. The soundscape is atmospheric, too – think chattering monkeys, parrots and the odd tropical storm.

The food menu is accessible, with kids' options ranging from burgers, chicken goujons, baked potatoes and macaroni cheese to salmon fishcakes, pizzas, meatballs and chicken salad. The adults menu is a little more interesting, with penne arrabbiata, quesadillas, cobb salads and grilled sea bass with garlic mashed potato, horseradish sauce and sautèed baby spinach. 

And if you want to take a furry friend home? A visit to the shop – chock-full of jungle-themed toys – will supply the souvenirs.