Jack Straws Castle Hampstead

The two garçons in question are Robert Reid and JC Slowik, both stalwarts of the London restaurant scene, and their experience is here to see in every element of this immensely likeable French bistro, which is far bigger than their previous place and thus better for coping with demand. Expect all the classics to be found on the menu or blackboard, whether that’s duck confit or escargots; the baba au rhum is not to be missed and the all-French wine list is appealing priced.

Hearty British dishes which are big on flavour are the order of the day at this sympathetically refurbished Victorian pub. The ground floor bar has a lively buzz and the more sedate first floor dining room opens later in the week. The terrific mushroom tempura is a prime example of what this kitchen does well: straightforward, moreish dishes that come in generous portions. Lovely bedrooms and a friendly, attentive team complete the picture.

In the heart of Kentish Town sits this warm and characterful pub, with its roots in the 19th century. The large bar dominates the front area and leads into the equally appealing dining room, complete with open kitchen. Wood-fired grilling is the house speciality and adds an appealing smokiness to much of the menu. Several of the dishes are designed for sharing, like mutton pie or sea bream with piperade; do start with the potato bread with smoked butter and the duck tartlets. There’s also a well-priced selection of great wine by the glass.

‘For Lesley, By Daniel’ is the tagline of this endearing neighbourhood restaurant inspired by the owner’s late sister and named in honour of their childhood escapades that would always start with “don’t tell dad”. Situated in the heart of bustling Queen’s Park, there’s a lovely vintage feel to the place, which also operates as a bakery during the day. Start with snacks such as the moreish truffle and cheddar beignets, before considering hearty sharing mains such as wing rib of beef with bone marrow butter. Ensure you save room for the freshly baked madeleines to finish too.

Your belly will certainly be full after visiting this warm and welcoming Filipino bistro where the flavour-packed cooking will quickly have you planning your return. The concise menu is full of originality and appeal, making choosing the hardest thing you’ll do all day. Do you go for the signature cod pandesal or the fabulous scallops ‘Bicol Express’? Wagyu picanha or seafood calderata? Whatever you opt for, the terrific flavours will shine through. Finish with the unusual-sounding but utterly joyous frozen custard profiterole with salty fish sauce caramel.

Named after the grandmother of one of the owners, Paulette is the sort of cosy, traditional French bistro everyone laments as no longer existing. The atmosphere is convivial – you get the feeling most customers walked here – and the menu is hugely appealing; expect everything from escargots and moules marinière to filet de boeuf and chocolate soufflé. Add in a cleverly curated all-French wine list that’s great value, along with a fridge full of produce to buy and take home, and you have the recipe for a very satisfying night out.

The old art of surf 'n’ turf is revived at this fun, playful restaurant on the upper floor of the King’s Cross branch of Mare Street Market. It’s a loud and lively place, where the genuine, friendly service adds to the positive atmosphere. Two experienced chefs, Brad Carter and Tom Brown, bring expertise in meat and seafood dishes respectively, and the most eye-catching choices are those that mix the two. Skewers are a feature, be they duck and mussel or lamb belly and clam, while a special occasion surely calls for the mixed grill.