L'Abat Jour

Found this little place by accident when I was in London for a few days on business. I liked it so much I went back again twice.
There was such a friendly and welcoming atmosphere. There is a small area at the rear of the restaurant which wa filled with hanging baskets and pots full of flowers and greenery. So unexpected in the middle of London.
Food was delicious, and I liked the little extra touches like the homemade biscuit served with the coffee. I would recommend it highly.

It's the week before Christmas; all 'bout the house
No one stirs, not even a mouse
And getting a table booked for 10 with only a week's notice is unlikely…

…but L'abat Jour happily booked us a table in their friendly, family-run local italian-influenced, non-pretentious and downright delicious restaurant.

In the event, due to snowshowers, only 5 of us turned up. They welcomed us in and provided an alternative table (no complaints of the reduced numbers), and presented a decent and reasonably priced menu – both fixed menu at a decent price around £30 for 3 courses, and a la carte with mains from £11 to £16. Wines started at £11 for the house wine – we had a lovely Nero D'Avola for £18 per bottle.

Overall, we really like the genuine welcome at this restaurant (in contrast to many in or near the City).

We ate here just before Christmas with our seven year old daughter and had a very enjoyable evening.
The food was lovely and the waiters were very attentive to our needs – particularly looking after our fussy daughter !
We have eaten in a few central london/city restaurants over the last few years and this is definitely one of the best in terms of value for money and efficient service. My husband has also since been back for a business lunch and would highly recommend.

PS – one of the websites stated that the restaurant was only open in the evenings for private parties – we think this is an error as we were clearly welcomed in the evening with open arms !