This seems such a good idea, it's surprising no one else has thought of it

The last time we went to the theatre in Newcastle, we discovered Starters and Puds, just over the road from the Theatre Royal, and couldn't understand why others hadn't thought of this. A menu consisting of 'starters' (actually probably more like tapas style dishes), side orders, and puds, with can be ordered at the same time.

So as soon as we had decided to go and see the RSC in Newcastle, the next thought was 'and we can go to Starters and Puds'. Given the distance we had to travel, the plan was to have our starter pre-performance, and our pud post-show. A brilliant way to avoid the pre-theatre indigestion which I tend to induce in people with my anxiety not to be late.

We were a bit surprised to get there and be told that owing to some mix up with the licensing, they actually couldn't serve any alcohol, so I was despatched to the off licence round the corner, and returned with a very acceptable bottle of chilled pinot grigio.

The food was lovely, and we pre-ordered our puds to return to them after the show, as the kitchen would have closed by then. That's Shakespeare for you, you pretty much only just get out in time for last orders. It also caused a bit of a quandary, as, as we were leaving the theatre they announced there was to be a post-show talk back with the actors. Now, I wouldn't walk away from that very often, and was very torn. But pud was calling, and, what's more, it was paid for. I'm not Yorkshire for nothing.

It was quite delicious too. I'm now wondering what else I can go and see at the Theatre Royal?