Club Gascon

The premises, a former Lyons Teahouse, may be steeped in history - St Bart's hospital and the main entrance to Smithfield's market are just across the way - but it is now every inch the sophisticated, modern dining venue. A favourite spot for the fabled 'long lunch' of the City, you can expect to be greeted on arrival by stunning flower arrangements created by the chef himself, then drink in the marble-clad walls and old oak flooring in this small bustling dining room. Advance booking is essential - as is confirming the booking - and service from the smart, black-tied waiting staff is unhurried. The dishes are served in small portions (tasting plates) and the restaurant has its roots in the French provincial cooking of Gascony - think foie gras. 'Le Marche' is a seasonal menu for the whole table, or chose from over 20 enticingly creative dishes. All the ingredients are of the very best quality, painstakingly sourced from South West France, but the menu contains imaginatively compelling combinations; so expect the likes of confit of organic salmon, violet tea and citrus chutney alongside foie gras popcorn or cappuccino of black pudding and lobster. To finish, 'Gold Sensation' - vanilla foie gras, candied chestnuts and sweet mango - is hard to resist. The extensive French wine list specialises in the South and South West of France.

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Nearest station: Barbican or Farringdon

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