Busaba Eathai

Now counting the years in double digits, this sexy, budget Thai mini-chain still has what it takes. Rain or shine, the queues are a fixture, but don’t be put off because ‘they’re deceptively fast-moving’. Inside, seating is at communal dark-wood tables in the incense-scented, alluringly attractive room, where you’ll be elbow-to-elbow with office groups & fashionistas. The queues tell a story: Busaba serves ‘excellent fodder’ that is reasonably priced & comes out ‘fresh & fast’. Among the many hits are tender monkfish curry with pea aubergines & sweetcorn, pad thai, green papaya salad, & Mussaman duck curry with potato, peanut & lime. Service is efficient & ‘you never feel like you’re being rushed out’. To drink, there’s a neat selection of three reds, whites & rosés, plus sakés, beers, juices & tea – everything but coffee.