Tom Aikens, London
Tube: South Kensington
London
England SW3
Tel: 44 207 584 2003
www.tomaikens.co.uk
Concierge.com's insider take:
This sleek Anouska Hempel–designed restaurant in Chelsea is the stage for the sumptuous talents of Tom Aikens, whom foodies hail as the next big thing in gastronomy. The posh but relaxed 60-seat interior has round tables dramatically draped in black, overlaid with raw white Irish linen, matching napkins, and beautiful glass and chinaware. The effect is grown-up—not sedate—chic. The menu describes French cooking in plain English; the cooking is innovative without being wacky or experimental. Standout examples include steamed pigeon with chestnut cannelloni; cured venison with pickled beetroot, quince, and venison carpaccio; and pan-fried turbot with braised salsify, Jerusalem artichoke soup, and duck confit. If you can't decide, order the tasting menu that runs to eight courses. An added bonus: the excellent sommelier.
Closed Saturdays and Sundays.
