Cote - Soho

Andy Bassadone and chef Chris Benians have decided to go French with the opening of Côte, a chain of medium priced bistro style restaurants that mirror the trend in Paris, and the drift away from sophisticated food to less complicated cooking. So it comes as no surprise that they won the 2010 Good Food Guide's award for 'Best Value Restaurant in the UK'.

Inside there is none of the rather dated bistro style trappings, which have been replaced by a chic, clean-cut approach to both décor and furnishings. Olives, bread and pissaladière set the tone for what is to come, with starters of rillettes or a warm Roquefort salad to name but two from a good range. There are more choices between light mains such as crêpes Provençale or tuna niçoise, or a meat and fish menu that includes duck confit and the traditional lobster frites.

Desserts are voluptuous and rich, witness a convincing coupe noire or classic crème brûlée. Côte represents a genuine Gallic eating renaissance in elegant surroundings with people who clearly enjoy themselves.