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Pollen Street Social
London
The head chef here, Jason Atherton, has worked all his life under the supervision of one highly-skilled culinary master after another. His most recent experience is being head chef and Gordon Ramsay's Maze restaurant, and a stint under Ferran Adria at El Bulli - basically, you're in safe hands at the Pollen Street Social (or PSS for short).
The word 'social' is definitely a mantra that runs throughout the work-ethic and attitude towards customers here. Different rooms - including the no-booking bar where tapas, an a la carte meal, drinks or a solo dessert can be ordered - suggest a wealth of different clientele which also suggests a whole host of variety on the menu.
Speaking of which, if you're looking for an out-and-out bargain - especially in this neck of the woods and during these tough financial times - punt for the set menu. You get three courses for £23 and you can choose from such mouth-watering delights as veal cheeks or a trout and potato salad starter, followed by Dingley Dell pork belly, roasted red mullet, or duck. Desserts include blood orange and beetroot sorbet or a white chocolate and coconut panna cotta.
The choice of style and atmosphere is given at PSS which is a refreshing slant on dining out in London; you're not all confined to one room. Also, before you leave, the staff will present you with 'afternoon tea on us' - a parting gift of one of their quality scones free of charge.
Opening times: Monday - Saturday: 12:00 - 14:45 & 18:00 - 22:45, Bar/Tapas: Monday - Saturday: 12:00 - 24:00