Hawksmoor

Simply put, Hawksmoor is a carnivore's paradise. There are few restaurants where such meticulous care is taken with the quality and preparation of their meat.  Hawksmoor's supplier, The Ginger Pig, is widely known for the superb quality of their traditionally reared beef (and other meat) and it's all put to best possible use here - simply cooked on a real charcoal grill.

Starters of Tamworth ribs, those friendly happy porkers who make the supreme sacrifice that we might enjoy - at least the poor blighters do not have to endure the trials and tribulations of old age - or perhaps fresh Cornish oysters or dressed Dorset crab will set your taste buds for the feast that is to come.

They boast there is no cut of meat they cannot produce for their customers, even if some need a little notice, but off the shelf there is bone-in sirloin, rib-eye and fillet. They also have bigger steaks to share including bone-in prime rib, porterhouse and Chateaubriand. Side dishes include chips (with béarnaise sauce, a must), macaroni cheese and lighter options such as a baby gem salad or creamed spinach.

Some say they also serve some of the best cocktails in London, so for those wanting to indulge in a pre/post dinner drink, have a leisurely read through their list which is made up of forgotten concoctions from lots of long out of print cocktail books.

The thing about the Hawksmoor is the reliability. There are no false claims, no culinary bravado, if they say they can do something it means just that. How refreshing in an age of mediocrity and excuses. Everything else about this rock solid watering hole and restaurant is of the same calibre. Go there with confidence and keen anticipation.