Zafferano

Zafferano has quite a reputation to live up to. Lauded as a place that provides ‘some of the best Italian food in London’ & garnished with a Michelin star, it exudes an effortless simplicity that can come as quite a surprise. This is ingredients-led Italian cooking par excellence, with the calendar dictating the menus & impeccable sourcing at the heart of the kitchen’s efforts. The results are ‘fantastically consistent’ & the attention to detail breathtaking. A starter of French beans, cuttlefish & Taggiasche olives is a supreme blend of potent flavours; textbook glossy pasta encases rich osso bucco ravioli; & desserts are marvels of presentation (consider succulent grilled peaches garnished with cherries, crumbled amaretti biscuits, green almonds & creamy mascarpone). Don’t miss the ‘truly amazing’ delicacies during the autumnal white truffle season. The understated dining room is a picture of unstuffy conviviality, thanks in part to solicitous, well-informed staff. Prices start at £34.50 for two courses.

Wine List: An enlightened approach to pricing has resulted in a vast choice of modestly priced bottles, with tempting bargains at the top end. The wines showcase the glorious diversity of Italy, along with a few international vintages, the highlight being a remarkable selection of rare older bins from Tuscan superstars. Best Buy White 2007 Gavi di Gavi La Lugarara, Giustiniana, Piedmont, Italy, £37. Best Buy Red 2006 Morellino di Scansano, La Mozza, Tuscany, Italy, £34.50.