Vanilla Black

The food list on Vanilla Black's menu - even for meat-eaters - is seriously tempting: the mains consist - among others - of seared seaweed with pickled potatoes for a real blossom of sour and savory tastes; fried mushroom mousse for both smooth and crispy textures; and poached hen's egg with hickory smoked potato croquettes and pineapple - a proper plateful of colour, flavour and textures.

As far as starters go, they've got a warming onion broth, a classic jacket potato with tomato syrup and Wensleydale cheese, Brie ice-cream with plum chutney. Pardon? Yes, Brie ice-cream. You can wipe that frown off your face because it's actually damn tasty, and rich beyond belief - definitely allow a few minutes before tucking into the main course. The creaminess of both the cheese and ice-cream, though, is certainly worth savouring.

Vanilla Black's reputation as one of the best vegetarian joints in London is bolstered by its friendly and knowledgeable staff, a clear and true regard to perfection from the chef, and just the look of the interior; cleanliness and modernisation with delicate wall-mirrors and stripped back decor. It's be a super place to treat someone to a celebratory meal.

Actually getting to Vanilla Black may warrant more help than our usual 'Nearest Tube' section. Incidentally, the nearest tube is Chancery Lane, on the Central Line. From there, cross over the - most probably - busy A40 and find Furnival Street on the other side. Head to end of it and turn right down Cursitor Street; Vanilla Black should be on your right, as should Tooks Court. We know it's not our fault, but we can only apologise for the location of this very well-hidden little spot. Still, as with most things that are hard to find, the results are totally worth it.

Opening times: Monday - Friday lunch: 12:00 - 14:30, dinner: 18:00 - 22:00, Saturday: 18:00 - 22:00