Bistrotheque

The New York Times featured Bistrotheque’s Tom Collins in its line up of hot London chefs. And why not? It’s about time Collins, who’s been here since Bistrotheque’s 2004 beginnings, received credit for consistently delivering what east London’s picky art & fashion crowd wants to eat. This, it transpires, is the likes of punchy steak tartare, roast chicken with garlic, or excellent fish & chips (judging by the mainstay dishes) – though regular updates to the menu might include grilled radicchio with morcilla & peppers, or grilled quail with aïoli & watercress. Brunch, accompanied by a pianist, runs from healthy-ish raspberries, mascarpone & toasted sourdough, to a juicy fat burger with onions & pancetta, & a traditional Sunday roast. The décor of whitewashed walls, concrete floor & bistro chairs is spare & functional; sparkle is provided by the achingly hip diners.