Oscar at the Charlotte Street Hotel

Smart doormen and uniform awnings spell class at the Charlotte Street Hotel, and its buzzing bar is no different. Named after that famous literary booze-hound Oscar Wilde, Oscar at the Charlotte Street Hotel plays host to smart suits and well-heeled ladies sipping fizz, as well as tourists at the wealthier end of the spectrum. Afternoon tea accompanied by pink Champagne or a White Chocolate Martini is a popular pastime, but Oscar at the Charlotte Street Hotel gets really rammed after the offices close down. The bartenders clearly know their cocktails, but we'd single out the Charlotte Bramble – a signature concoction of fig-infused Bombay Sapphire gin, blackberries and crème de mûre, best enjoyed with nibbles such as crispy chilli squid or aloo tikki Scotch egg. If the thought of skiving bothers you, just remember Oscar Wilde's mantra – 'work is the curse of the drinking classes'.

Based in the smart Charlotte Street Hotel, expect to be greeted by doorman as you arrive at the Oscar bar and restaurant. The restaurant is all about serving top quality, seasonal food in a fun and colourful setting.

The front of the hotel is impressive enough by itself, with the whole ground floor façade painted mint green from head to toe, contrasting with the pale brick wall of the rest of the building above; a huge union jack hangs from above the door signalling that this is an old-school British hotel.

However, once you head into the Oscar bar and restaurants, prepare to be greeted by waves of colour and huge pieces of modern art which will grab your attention as soon as you walk in. The restaurant maintains a wonderful balance of being not overly casual but also not taking itself too seriously, making it a great spot to enjoy a meal with friends and family alike.

The a la carte menu consists of classic British dishes with a few influences from elsewhere in Europe. For starters you might go for the game terrine with hedgerow chutney, and toasted sourdough, or perhaps the decadent lobster cocktail. Main courses range from venison loin with clapshot, Brussels sprouts and bacon, to black cod, served with bok choy and Furikake rice. There’s also a separate pasta section if you’re feeling like something a little lighter, with options such as an oxtail ragu pappardelle on offer.

The tempting dessert menu features dishes such as a white chocolate fondant, and chestnut bread and butter pudding. There is also both an extensive breakfast and brunch menu on offer which is largely focused around egg-based classics, and an afternoon tea menu too. This is all accompanied by a suitably impressive wine list as well as a long list of signature cocktails.