Le Mercury

‘Perfectly executed French food at incredible prices’ is the satisfied report from one of many customers who have frequented this unpretentious bistro since 1985. Though a little worn around the edges, the ground floor dining room with its terracotta flooring & intimate tables for two retains a faded romance, & is the top pick of rooms on three ascending levels. Those unbelievably low prices are £3.95 for starters, £7.95 for mains & £2.95 for desserts. You don’t have to eat like a peasant either; dine in royal style on crayfish & lobster ravioli with spinach & shellfish sauce, followed by roast saddle of lamb with grilled courgettes & rosemary jus, then crème brûlée or ripe French cheeses. Les vins blancs et rouges are an international affair, & to finish there’s a generous selection of liqueur coffees.