For London families looking to combine an exciting day out with a satisfying, flavour-packed meal, Banana Tree at the O2 Arena offers a compelling culinary stop. Situated next to the entrance of the iconic dome itself, this vibrant eatery delivers Pan-Asian fusion cuisine in an urban-industrial setting that’s both welcoming and full of energy.
This was our second visit to Banana Tree, and once again, it lived up to expectations – if not exceeded them. We just finished climbing the O2, and needed a break from browsing the outlet village, so we stopped here to fuel up and have a long and relaxing chat.
Atmosphere & setting
Banana Tree’s interiors blend a lively, almost street-market vibe with industrial chic: think exposed piping, ambient lighting, long shared tables, and colourful Southeast Asian-inspired wall art. As it was hot, this time we dined outdoor. There’s an energetic buzz in the air, with groups of friends and families tucking into steaming bowls and sipping cocktails. While it’s upbeat and modern, it remains relaxed enough to feel child-friendly – no hushed tones or awkward silences here.
The Menu: A journey through Southeast Asia
The menu spans Thailand, Vietnam, Malaysia, Indonesia and Singapore, offering a rich mix of traditional favourites and contemporary interpretations. Over 40% of the menu is plant-based, which is a win for families with dietary requirements or those simply aiming to reduce meat consumption.
Our meal began with an enticing round of drinks. Banana Tree’s much-loved “forever happy hour” offers 2-for-1 on cocktails and mocktails all day, every day, making it both parent- and pocket-friendly. We opted for alcohol-free piña coladas – thick, tropical, and creamy, with a perfect balance of coconut and pineapple. They were ideal for cooling down after the exertion of climbing the O2.
For mains, we shared the classic Pad Thai, available with both chicken and prawns – a satisfying, well-balanced dish with tamarind tang, fresh lime, and plenty of crunch from bean sprouts and crushed peanuts. The standout, however, was the Legendary Beef Rendang, a rich, deeply spiced Indonesian curry slow-cooked in coconut milk for hours. Known as the “king of curries,” its origins trace back to the Minangkabau tribe, and Banana Tree’s version delivered authentic warmth and comfort, ideal for a blustery London day.
To finish, we shared the house speciality dessert – a green coconut pancake filled with caramelised coconut and served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Initially sceptical about the green hue, we were completely won over. Light, not overly sweet, and bursting with exotic flavour, it turned out to be one of the most memorable dishes of the evening. A surprisingly moreish treat that we’d return for in its own right.
Service: Friendly, Fast and Family-Focused
Service was a standout feature. Our waitress was cheerful, attentive, and accommodating, making us feel welcome without ever being intrusive. Despite the bustling dining room, our food arrived quickly and accurately. The staff clearly know how to manage large groups and families without missing a beat.
Practicalities for Families
-
Kids welcome: Plenty of space for buggies and high chairs. While there’s no dedicated children’s menu, most dishes can be adapted or shared.
-
Great value: With generous portions and the permanent happy hour on drinks, Banana Tree is excellent value for money – especially in the O2 area, where dining can be pricey.
-
Opening hours: Open daily until 10:30pm, making it convenient for pre- or post-show dining.
The Verdict
Banana Tree at the O2 Arena is a lively and reliable choice for families and foodies alike. Offering bold Pan-Asian flavours, fast and friendly service, and a relaxed, kid-tolerant atmosphere, it’s ideal for a pre-show meal, post-shopping bite or casual weekend treat. With plant-based options, standout desserts, and wallet-friendly drink deals, it ticks all the boxes for a top-tier casual dining experience in one of London’s busiest entertainment hubs.
Highly recommended – and we’ll certainly be back.