The Lions Den flat at the red lion public house.

There's a charmingly rustic feel to this smartly run rural inn close to the Victorian market town of Usk. A white-washed exterior, log-burning stove and wooden beams all add to the appeal, while the chefs do their part with a concise menu of well-executed, classically based cuisine. The fish cookery is a particular highlight, as evidenced by dishes like hake with a terrific butter sauce and capers. Everything is made in-house, including the ice creams and sorbets for dessert.

Hidden away in the leafy suburbs of Cardiff, this is a true neighbourhood restaurant which continues to develop and evolve. Begin with a cocktail in the spacious, formal bar, before taking a seat in the cosy downstairs or moody first-floor dining room. Proud Welshman Tom Simmons is at the helm, bringing his love of local produce to bear in technically impressive, full-flavoured dishes built on the likes of Pembrokeshire oysters and saddle of Welsh lamb. Whatever you order, be sure to start with some superb sourdough from their own bakery, Ground.