Hoxton Apprentice

Just round the corner from its famous, Jamie Oliver-backed compatriot, this elegant little restaurant is run by the Training For Life charity, providing apprenticeships for the homeless & long-term unemployed. A recent renovation has opened up the space, but the parquet floor, stained-glass panels & Egyptian hand-blown lamps hanging from the high ceiling are happily still in evidence. With its 10th birthday approaching, the scheme has seen students head off to work in the kitchens of Raymond Blanc, Gordon Ramsay & even the Queen. The team is now led by ex-apprentices who’ve earned their stripes at some of London’s best establishments. The modern European menu keeps things simple, with a touch of class (smoked salmon plate with a boiled egg, capers, gherkins & pickled cucumber; poached pears in red & white wine with vanilla ice cream), the wine list offers an admirable grape selection & prices are fair.