Theatreland’s stalwart American diner Joe Allen (a survivor of the ’70s) is to move lock, stock and wood panelling this summer. The restaurant and all its fixtures and fittings will take up a new home, just 25 metres down the road, in Burleigh Street, Covent Garden.

Retaining the recognisable wood panelling, classic theatre posters and bar, Joe Allen will hopefully remain the “great spot for meeting pre-/post-show” it has long been for our reporters. The restaurant’s current site on Exeter Street has been acquired by actor Robert De Niro who will open a boutique hotel in its place.

Celebrating its 40th birthday this year, Joe Allen has enjoyed a loyal following of thespians, famous faces and theatregoers alike, and has also played an early role in the careers of chef Rowley Leigh and restaurateurs Russell Norman and Jeremy King.

“Although we’re moving, we’re keeping everything the same – our new home on Burleigh Street will be a reincarnation of the Joe Allen we all know and love, with a couple of new additions,” says co-owner Lawrence Hartley.

Joe Allen’s new place will open in August 2017 on Burleigh Street.