Rafters Restaurant

If there was a definitive heading of 'innovative British' it would surely go to Rafters where Marcus Lane and Michael Sabin produce a regularly changing menu of dishes which, whilst often displaying their origins, have had a pair of intelligent and creative minds applied to them to great advantage. Take a starter of steamed asparagus between slices of lightly toasted brioche, delicately laced with truffle oil and served with a lemon and herb hollandaise, and you will have some idea of what they are about. There is a wealth of difference between messing about with food for the sake of it and applying artistry and intuitive care; little room is left for doubt at Rafters. These principles apply throughout with a pudding such as white chocolate mousse, served with a wild berry compote and milk chocolate sauce. The wine list is well set out with useful tasting notes and low, low prices. House French starts at £11.50 and on Monday and Wednesday you are welcome to bring your own wine in return for a modest corkage of £3.

No children under 5 years.