Somerstown Coffeehouse

Resembling a seaside pub in northern France, Somerstown has a love affair with all things Gallic. Lunches of omelettes, salads & baguettes, plus all-day light meals ranging from steak-frites to moules marinière, are served on simple wooden tables around the main bar. After 6pm, there’s the option of dinner on the smarter side of the room. Here, upholstered seats encourage you to linger over rustic French cuisine: perhaps rabbit, pork & foie gras terrine, then duck magret with a spiced apple sauce. British allegiances are reserved for Sunday’s all-day roast. The French staff ‘couldn’t be more helpful’ & readers rate the whole friendly show as excellent value for money. In warmer weather, steer clear of the street-side picnic tables & make your way to the quieter rear patio, which has a covered section for inclement interludes. Eagle IPA & Young’s Special are on draught, or there’s a wide-ranging wine list.