This unique Grade II listed property was built by Ove Arup, a name synonymous with the engineering plan of Sydney Opera House, but with the arrival of Chris Topping in 1998, things have changed for the better when this once neglected building was smartened up keeping the original design intact. Add to that uninterrupted views of the Thames estuary and you have a desirable setting for an enjoyable meal.

The menu at Labworth is a blend of Mediterranean and modern British cooking and salmon parcels and baked avocado thermidor with tuna, prawns and crabmeat are enough to establish the kitchen's competence for a start. And there's more evidence of it in dishes like chicken boursin, fillet of pork stroganoff and lamb cutlets reforme. Sometimes if you want to steer clear of facing the arduous task of choosing from several delectable options just order from a two or three course set menu.

Finger buffets and the Sunday lunch menu give diners even stronger reasons to visit The Labworth Restaurant.