C&B (formerly Corney & Barrow)

If you’re stranded at your workstation, fantasising about lazy summer barbecues on the deck of a classy ocean liner, you might just be able to get a taste of the high life by heading down to this pocket-sized member of the C&B chain. The nautical theme shows in the narrow bar with its shiny panels, chrome stools, white walls & sunny windows, while outside – in the flashy environs of Fleet Place – C&B cranks up the BBQ for rib-eye steak on ciabatta with thyme-scented onions or smoked-paprika chicken breast served with fragrant toasted almond, mint & apricot couscous. The rush dies down in the evening, with food limited to snacks & platters. True to form, the impressive global wine list suits most pockets (particularly the silk-lined variety).