6th February 2009
Valentine's Day might be a week away, but why wait until then for an amorous dinner? The Good Food Guide names ten of London's most romantic restaurants on any day of the year.
February 14th is the busiest night for restaurants, and will be even more so this year as it falls on a Saturday. It can be an ordeal for diners confronted with red roses, tinkling pianos, heart-shaped chocolates and over-priced champagne.
But here's ten great London restaurants for a romantic tryst, and they're all rated by The Good Food Guide for their cuisine too:
> Galvin at Windows, W1. A stunning panoramic view from the 28th floor and sophisticated French cooking.
> Angelus, W2. Dark wood, mirrors, chandeliers, buttoned-back leather banquettes hit all the right Parisian notes.
> Enoteca Turi, SW15. Modern elegance with deep rich red walls, acres of white linen and fantastic Italian country cooking.
> Scotts, W1. Glamorous, romantic setting for London's peerless see-and-be seen restaurant.
> Quo Vadis, W1. Stained glass, antique mirrored panels, well-spaced banquettes define this modern British brasserie.
> Magdalen, SE1. Deep colours, crisp linen, great service, excellent no frills British cooking.
> Almeida, N1. Dining room flaunts a Gallic edge to match the modern take on French classics.
> Les Trois Garçon, E2. Stuffed with vintage finds, this is a French brasserie as imagined by Lewis Carroll.
> Brula Bistrot, Twickenham. The mood is relaxed, prices are fine and the kitchen has its heart in France.
> Pearl, WC1. A handsome dining room with a stunning, light-strewn bar that comes into its own at night.
Elizabeth Carter, Editor of The Good Food Guide, says:
"We're not saying people should boycott Valentine's Day, but if you want to have a romantic meal out, why wait until the busiest night of the year? London's got some great restaurants and if you go to the places we've chosen this weekend, or the middle of next week, you'll avoid the crowds and have a fabulous time. In fact, you'll have a great time whenever you go."