Racine

Conveniently close to many of the attractions of South Kensington, Racine, co-owned by Chef Henry Harris, ex-Head Chef at Fifth Floor, has rattled more than a few culinary cages in the area and now its future certainly looks rosy. The restaurant is welcoming. Furnishings, napery and ambience are spot on, complementary to the experience without being in any way intrusive.

Not for the first time this is an attempt to retrace the route to original French classic homely food, but the difference is that it appears to be succeeding. Start with warm garlic and saffron mousse with mussels, while roast wild duck with cassis and caramelised endive make a delicious main dish, finishing with a pain perdu with poached pear.

A thoughtful and well-priced wine list rounds off the experience well and there is little doubt that if the prevailing standards are maintained, Racine will turn out to be a winner.