Blakes

Anouska Hempel’s boutique hotel celebrated its 30th birthday in 2007 & it still looks sleek & sophisticated, scattered with artefacts from its owner’s far-flung travels. The basement restaurant is open throughout the day, but the glossy, shadowy space really comes into its own in the evening. Menus offer a role call of global greatest hits – foie gras tortellini, rack of lamb with rosemary, meltingly tender fillet beef teriyaki & the best-selling black cod with miso & ginger sauce – &, though the quality of both cooking & ingredients is decent, it’s hard to see why starters average £25 & mains £30. Lunchtime bento boxes (£21.50) offer moderately better value – just make sure to order when you book as they’re only available on request.