The Library at The Rubens at the Palace

Set in the depths of The Rubens hotel, this subterranean restaurant is a dusty mix of comfy old boys’ club & antique bookshop. Glass cabinets filled with leather-bound tomes frame a well-trodden dining room that is cluttered with frayed armchairs, curiosity shop knick-knacks & tables draped with the red cross of St George. However, the steadfastly antiquated vibe doesn’t mean that prices are in shillings & pence – expect to pay top dollar for a mix of mainstream British & European dishes. Starters such as Sussex rabbit terrine hover around the £12-14 mark, while a main of sea bass with curly kale & sorrel sauce will set you back £23. The highlight of the international wine list is a large collection from South African boutique winery Bouchard Finlayson.