Bradleys

You don’t often hear people saying they’re going for a meal in Swiss Cottage but if by chance you do, they’re probably going to Bradleys, which is without doubt the area’s smartest dining option. That’s not to say it’s flawless: the contemporary dining room can sometimes feel a touch cold & the food – modern European with strong Mediterranean accents – can hit the odd duff note. But the menu is generally well executed: a meal might kick off with pan-fried scallops with pea puree, chorizo & caper dressing, ahead of rack & shoulder of lamb with boulangere potatoes, aubergine caviar & broad beans, with apricot soufflé & almond ice-cream to finish. The wine list is wide-ranging, well laid out & with a range of options by the glass & half bottle.