Katana @ The International

Overlooking Trafalgar Square, Katana is right in the centre of theatreland, offering some of the best Asian and Oriental food, at the heart of London. The brightly lit classical exterior, formerly a bank, in its new guise is positively inviting, giving way to a sophisticated and beautifully lit interior that welcomes and reassures.

Katana is located on the first floor of this stunning venue, sitting above one of the capital's best cocktail bars.

On arrival you are made to feel welcome in a bar area where the smart set mingle whilst they consider the menu over cocktails as they unwind for the evening ahead. Created by Anthony Morrison, ex-Harvey Nichols, the pan Asian menu is both imaginative and all embracing. The clientele relates strongly to the flavours of Thailand, India, China and Malaysia, a combination that seems to court increasing popularity with those seeking to break out from the conventional and traditional.

Few need reminding of the ever increasing popularity of the traditional dim sum, and Katana have these off to a fine art. Asian salads are also included and each item costs between £3 and £5. For those with better developed appetites there are more ample dishes such as a range of Asian curries, Confit lamb shoulder spiced with turmeric and ginger sweet potato puree and Teriyaki salmon, stir-fried greens and toasted sesame seeds to name just a few of the fifteen main courses dishes available. Plus prices start from just £6.95 to £11.95.

Dishes are sorted into smaller or larger, and amongst the smaller expect to find crispy fried braised duck with watercress and black bean dressing, crisp fried prawn dumplings with soy and spring onion dipping sauce or Thai fishcakes with lime leaf and red chilli paste.

Puddings are limited, as is the case with most of the cuisines involved, but you can enjoy tropical Pavlova with passion fruit cream and lychees, chocolate brownie with Madagascan vanilla ice cream, vanilla, pear and cinnamon crème brûlée or a selection of dairy double cream ice creams and fresh fruit sorbets.

Amongst comments made by clientele past, "Katana is a great place for a first date - intimate without feeling isolated from the other diners". Lest you feel that has little to do with the food, "I had a great night at Katana. I booked their spring special offer which gave me a fantastic 3 course meal with half a bottle of wine and free entry to their nearby nightclub, The Gardening Club", or "This is a fabulous restaurant . . great looking, fab service and very reasonably priced. Our food was absolutely stunning . . . . ."

There is a notable wine list, with prices that will not send you screaming for the cheaper bottles. Service is friendly, and after dinner there is no rush to be gone, just find a comfortable corner in the bar below and enjoy the rest of the evening into the small wee hours.

For further information, visit their Website.