Jungle Cave

Moving elephants, exotic jungle displays and the odd thunderstorm aren’t usually what one expects when eating out with the family, but then Jungle Cave isn’t exactly a normal restaurant. Promising guests an ‘immersive family escapade’ away from the hustle and bustle of Piccadilly Circus just outside, this rainforest-themed eatery is designed to bring a small slice of the Amazonian wilderness to the city. 

Jungle Cave comprises two spacious floors in the heart of the west end: upstairs is a shop selling cuddly toys and the likes, while downstairs lies a tropical den where diners can soak up the sights and sounds of the rainforest. To reach the main dining room, we descended the curved staircase, and took stock of a cascading waterfall on the way down, passed a bar featuring animal legs for stools, and ambled over a small footbridge to our table. 

First impressions? The interiors are actually pretty cool. A faux starry night sky twinkled above us, while the rest of our view was taken up by fake animals tucked into a dense display of foliage. Our table was placed next to a rather convincing elephant, which blinked and moved at various intervals throughout the evening. All this comes with the added immersive bonus of tropical sound effects. Sure, it’s a restaurant designed for kids, with almost every table occupied by families or school trips, but we wager that adults will also find some appeal in this wild escape. 

The menu features a range of crowd-pleasing dishes for all ages: burgers, pasta, grills and salads. If you have really young ones in tow, there is a fixed-price set kids' menu, which we inferred was very popular judging by the number of ice cream sundaes and jelly-based desserts that zipped past our table. Don’t expect anything particularly gourmet (our starters consisted of chicken strips and macaroni bites), but we do suggest you opt for one of its burgers or pasta plates come mains. Plus, it does a mean milkshake if you fancy something sweet.  

Jungle Cave is pretty unique, as restaurants go. Offering all-day dining for all ages, this rainforest-themed restaurant in Piccadilly Circus offers groups and families an unforgettable experience. Sit at the bar, where each stool is printed with a different animal's fur pattern, before moving to the tables under the trees. Keep a lookout for crocodiles and elephants lurking in the shrubbery, and feel the misty jungle air immerse you in the world. Don't miss the retail village, where guests can purchase a range of stuffed toy animals, before enjoying your delicious meal cooked by dedicated on-site chefs. 

There are nibbles a-plenty here, perfect for keeping hungry kids happy while you decide what to order. These include family favourites like chicken strips, garlic bread, mac 'n' cheese, wings and more. Adults and older kids can choose from a range of hot dogs and burgers, including meaty, veggie and vegan options, as well as sides like fries, mash, onion rings and corn on the cob. For something a little fancier, there are also steaks, fish and chips, salmon, lamb shanks and grilled chicken breast too. 

Those who fancy pasta can choose from the likes of bolognese, alfredo, pesto and a noodle stir-fry, while salads are also available. Birthday cakes can be ordered, with other dessert options including apple crumble and white chocolate and raspberry cheesecake. The kids' menu features classics like burgers, pizza, chicken strips, mac 'n' cheese, bolognese and hot dogs. 

Jungle Cave's auditory and visual effects will ensure you and your family or guests feel truly immersed in the jungle. The exotic climate will instantly transport you out of London and into the jungle. To start booking your visit, simply fill in the form on the right to book a table. No time to waste - adventure awaits you at Jungle Cave!