Lonsdale

Ever since top mixologist Dick Bradsell helped launch Lonsdale in 2002, it has had a reputation as one of the top cocktail dens in the capital – so ease into one of the red leather banquettes & start your evening with a signature bramble or rose-petal martini. A new chef is at the stoves & the food is now as impressive as the starry drinks list. Aged Cumbrian steaks are still a feature, while other dishes on the short menu show more than a touch of refinement – witness Brixham scallops served with ‘textures of cauliflower’ or a combo of garlic-roast snails & summer truffle allied with that current chef’s favourite, bone marrow. A special early-bird menu (£19.50 for three courses) might bring on more populist dishes including onglet & chips.