Corney & Barrow

One of the chain’s younger links, this bustling bar occupies the ground floor of an office complex between Leadenhall Market & Fenchurch Street. The traffic-free setting is a bonus for drinkers on the modest terrace; inside, the look is sharp & contemporary, with darkly sophisticated colours, moody lighting & some striking modern furniture. The wine list features a decent array of Champagne for City types with something to celebrate in these hard times – there’s even a Veuve Clicquot Nebuchadnezzar for communal bashes. Those with less to cheer about can pick from a large range of popular varietals by the glass. On the food front, the lunch menu promises popular brasserie-style dishes ranging from fishcakes with lemon mayo to rosemary-marinated pork cutlets with apple compote.