Massimo
10 Northumberland Avenue, London
Set within a vast and elegant room in the Corinthia Hotel, just moments from Trafalgar Square, this restaurant’s striking space is a reason to visit in itself. Massimo’s art deco style was constructed by the great late architect David Collins, who has been responsible for the design of The Wolseley, The Delauney, J Sheekay and more. The Head Chef, Andrea Cirino, who mastered his trade in Napoli produces the honest Italian classics with a modern twist. And with sommelier Adriana Valentini pouring only the finest, if you’re out to impress, then this is certainly the spot.
HB Recommendations:
Octopus Salad with Lemon-Scented Potato Purée and Artichoke
Dry Aged Rib-Eye Steak
Classic Tiramisu
Benares
12a Berkeley Square, London
Benares received it’s Michelin star back in 2007 under the helm of Atul Kochhar, a critically acclaimed Indian born chef. By combining the heritage of his native India with his love of British ingredients, Kochhar has famously produced a unique and innovative selection of dishes and continues to marry traditional Indian food with daring modernity at the highest level. The tasting menu is a fantastic plus if considering Benares for client entertainment, as it removes the decision making and allows everyone to sample all corners of the menu that may otherwise go unnoticed. Just be sure to also inspect the corners of their extensive cocktail menu.
HB Recommendations:
Pan Seared Scallops, Broccoli Couscous and Cauliflower Purée
Smoked Tandoori Lamb Cutlets, Rogan Jus, Kashmiri Chilli Turnips and Mustard Leaf
Dark Chocolate Mousse, Passion Fruit, Hot Chocolate Sauce
8 Mount Street
8 Mount Street, London
So confident in it’s location, 8 Mount Street hasn’t needed another name in order to draw in a regular stream of customers, it is housed in a opulent period building on one of Mayfair’s original shopping streets. The food is equal in elegance, especially the dessert menu, which includes greek style doughnuts and hazelnut cream filled profiteroles. For a complete experience, head to Bar 8 first, where you can enjoy an intimate softly lit bar with a wonderful selection of spirits, before choosing one of the restaurant’s tables that overlook the outdoor terrace and offers slightly more privacy.
HB Recommendations:
Truffle Egg
Grilled Sea Bass
Vanilla Crème Brûlée
UNI
18a Ebury Street, London
Former Nobu chef Rolando Ongcoy is the creator of this fantastic menu at UNI, which is responsible for introducing London to Nikkei; a fusion cuisine named after the large community of Peruvians with Japanese heritage. The Asian elements of the highest quality sushi and a vast selection of grilled meats and fish (Wagyu beef or black cod are options) have Southern American influences laced throughout each dish, think ceviche or anticucho sauce with the black cod. For a restaurant with such impeccable style, it still manages to have that neighbourhood restaurant feel whilst being quietly nestled in the heart of Belgravia.
HB Recommendations:
Sweet Shrimp & Sea Urchin Ceviche
Mixed Vegetable Tempura
Maguro & Hamachi Sushi
Spring
Somerset House, Lancaster Place, London
Spring is the restaurant for impressing clients who are visiting London. Housed in the New Wing of Somerset House, this 19th-century restored drawing room does not disappoint. With large windows overlooking the Somerset courtyard, the seasonal theme is ever present, both in the environment and food. Skye Gyngell, previously head chef at Petersham Nurseries, has become known for her distinctly seasonal elegant cooking and continues to create a daily changing menu here at Spring by being constantly inspired by what she sees currently growing and blossoming.
HB Recommendations:
Spelt Pappardelle with Rabbit, Lovage, Artichoke and Dried Chilli.
Native Lobster with White Beans, Tarragon and Tomatoes.
Camembert De Normandie with Honey Walnuts, Celery Hearts and Kamut Crackers.
