Nine London Lovelies to cosy up to…

Viktor, Knightsbridge
I hesitated to add this one to my files as fusion sushi is one of my faves and I don’t find enough options in London. Hopefully they’ll still give me a table last minute when you all catch wind! De-licious and quiet; must order the special Viktor salad. Trust me.
116 Knightsbridge SW1X 7PG | +44 20 7581 6882

Maze, Mayfair
A Gordon Ramsay great; Tapas style. Book the Chefs table in the kitchen and get to lend a hand, hear the chefs banter. Amazingly tender meat, intense sauces and impeccable presentation…don’t worry about booking in advance if you are willing to sit two at the bar as they tend to be able to accomodate and it’s quite nice!
10-13 Grosvenor Square W1K 6JP | www.gordonramsay.com | +44 20 7107 0000

Phat Phuc, Chelsea
At last somewhere in London to get a fresh and healthy big soup. Great Vietnamese lunch spot & one of the best deals in London @ £6 for lunch! Dishes are prepared before your eyes in the open courtyard; fresh, vibrant herbs and chilies to warm the soul and heat lamps to keep you toasty!
151 Sydney Street SW3 6NT| www.phatphucnoodlebar.com | +44 79 7627 6808

Noor Jahan, Kensington
A neighbourhood south London staple serving up traditional Indian fare. Head Chef Santosh Kumer-Pal’s specialities never fail to impress. Popular with celebrities and locals alike.
2a Bina Gardens SW5 0LA | + 44 20 7402 2332

Riccardo’s, South Kensington
So fresh, this Italian is one of my faves anywhere. Go for the buzzy atmosphere and authentic food. Great tapas style plates; try the succulent chilli and garlic pan-fried prawns and delish grilled mushroom-topped polenta.
26 Fulham Road SW3 2AS | +44 87 1332 7935

La Poule au Pot, Belgravia
This candlelit French bistro is a Belgravian institution. One for carnivores- delicious foie gras, roast pigeon and venison. Request a table by the window to enjoy the leafy surroundings.
231 Ebury Street SW1W 8UT | +44 20 7730 7763

Tom’s Kitchen, Chelsea
A new addition to the hip but casual resto scene, chef Tom Aitkens serves up the comfort food we all love in a bright and smart setting. My must orders: The 7 hour slow cooked Lamb Shank, Maccaroni & Cheese and for desert, the vanilla pod yogurt with churros. Spacious bar and great group private table upstairs to check out.
27 Cale Street SW3 3QP| www.tomskitchen.co.uk | +44 207 349 0202

Cambio de Tercio, Kensington
Spanish sensation. Check out the delicious wines from Navarra and Ribera del Duero and legendary paella Sunday brunch. Book the table in front of the fireplace and bask in the atmosphere - Ole!
163 Old Brompton Road SW5 0LJ | www.cambiodetercio.co.uk | +44 20 7244 8970

Gaucho Grill and Vinoteca, Piccadilly
An Argentine chic haven. The space is enormous, encompassing a bar/ lounge you actually want to hang out in, a beautiful, smart restaurant (even if you don’t normally care for cow-hide) and well-stocked wine and products emporium of Argentine greats; many at great prices. Sommelier Phil is about as clued in on Argentine vino as Posh Becks is on pouting for the camera…a real find he is. Great semi-private dining room for 10-12. Book early for special events.
25 Swallow Street W1B 4QR | www.gaucho-grill.com | +44 20 7734 4040

*NB The new hip-Brazilian Mocoto on Knightsbridge is good, but not there yet. Will report back for the Spring update on new restos as often new venues need a bit of time to gel. The somewhat new fusion-Japanese Yakitoria near Paddington I have not been able to get to despite several attempts, but hear is Fab food in a stylish setting.