Exhibition Rooms, The

The Exhibition Rooms draw inspiration from Crystal Palace, which was opened by Queen Victoria in 1851 and was the centrepiece of the Great Exhibition of London. Spread over two floors the dining area mixes Victorian elegance with clever touches of classic contemporary design; lichen painted walls are offset by sections of stark stone brickwork. Antique dark wood tables lit by a couple of custom made Italian chandeliers epitomize the glamour.

Co-owner David Massey runs the kitchens and has devised a Modern British menu with a few European influences, creating a sophisticated but very relaxed dining experience at affordable prices. Starters include freshly picked crab with green papaya, mango, coriander, spring onion with Nam Jim dressing and pan fried chicken livers with a sherry glaze served on toasted brioche. For main course choose between twice cooked pork belly with Asian pear salad and a soy and ginger reduction and pan fried halibut with winter greens.