Moose Bar, The

This reinvention of a ski lodge, well bestrewn with alpine décor and fittings such as deer antlers, located opposite Selfridges makes a refreshing change from the myriad other options available in London, and must be unique. Downstairs is a bar with DJs six nights a week, with a small bar above it.

Close your eyes and drink deeply and you could be in the Alps cackling the fat after a hard day on the piste. Cocktail prices are reasonable, particularly at happy hour 6-9, when standard cocktails come down to £3.75 a throw.

Eating is a diversion rather than an occupation. Think minty lamb pie, and Heidi pie made with goats' cheese, sweet potato, spinach, red onion and roasted garlic. We may not be talking Michelin here, but it's all very friendly and evocative of richly enjoyed days and nights amidst the snows of another continent.