The Square

Style and sophistication lie beyond the glass frontage of this discreet, chic, premier-league restaurant in a sought-after address just off fashionable Bond Street and its designer boutiques. The expansive dining room - accessed via a small bar - is furnished in slick contemporary style, with terracottas, rich browns, steely blues and creams all harmonising. Parquet floors are set out with clothed tables, their rich brown, floor-length undercloths topped-off with crisp white linen, while striking, vibrant abstract artworks add a splash of colour to the neutral tones. A superb wine list and Philip Howard's bright, intense, memorable cooking prove more than a match for the elegant surroundings and impeccable, professional service. His refreshingly modern approach comes underpinned by a classical French theme; the fixed-priced repertoire, which includes an eight-course tasting option, dotted with luxury items, set to impress any business diner. Cultured dishes impress all, though, displaying an emphasis on well-sourced, top-notch ingredients, interesting combinations and strong, clear flavours, and come dressed to thrill. Consistency, timings, freshness and textures all help the cooking stand out from the crowd too. Take a stunning starter of sea-fresh sauté of langoustine tails and potato gnocchi with field mushroom purée, trompettes de la mort and truffle butter, or perhaps succulent slow-cooked fillet of cod with velvety creamed potato, cauliflower, leek hearts and truffle to follow. Poached pineapple, served with tropical jellies and lime ice cream, might catch the eye at dessert and deliver simplicity at its finest, while peripherals - like a fantastic selection of canapés, breads and petits fours - wrap things up in supreme style.

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Nearest station: Bond Street, Green Park

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