Bibendum Restaurant

Bibendum has set high standards on London's gastronomic (and architectural) map, opened in 1987 in the former Headquarters of the Michelin Tyre Company, a splendid art deco masterpiece, Bibendum introduced an attitude towards food that has been at the forefront of the growth and creativity of new restaurants in the capital. Dishes, in the main, are simple, generous and use only the very best of seasonal ingredients.

With an approach to its menu that was inspired by the original Head Chef, Simon Hopkinson, now one of the co-owners, it now occupies a special position among the many splendid restaurants in London that brings its customers back time and again - though it is certainly not a cheap place, though, if you want the best, you always have to pay for it.

The cooking could best be described as 'upmarket bistro' brought thoroughly up to date, from the seemingly mundane like haddock in batter with chips and tartare sauce - but poles apart from what you would get wrapped in newspaper from a 'chippie' - to the more sophisticated, with wonderful desserts like pear and almond tart.

The wine list is described in The Good Food Guide as 'a dream in terms of depth, scope and clarity'. This was recognised in 2003 when Bibendum landed the Most Exceptional Restaurant Wine List title given by the Tio Pepe Carlton London Restaurant Awards.