Travelling far and wide
TV presenter Varun Sharma does a lot of exploring on his travel show but it doesn't stop there. He also like to sample London's wide range of restaurants. He tells
Monte's, 164 Sloane Street SW1. Tel: 020 7245 0896. Tube: Knightsbridge
This restaurant has it all; a well-stocked bar on the top floor, a nightclub in the basement and the wonderful Ben O'Donoghue restaurant offering British fare with a Mediterranean twist. The risotto flavoured with Barolo is superb, as is the grilled Buccleuch Estate lamb.
La Poule Au Pot, 231 Ebury Street SW1. Tel: 020 7730 7763. Tube: Sloane Square
More people must have proposed marriage in this restaurant than in any other in London. It is without doubt the most romantic eaterie in the capital and the food is 'superbe'. The wine list is extensive, the waiters are really French and the escargots with garlic butter are magnificent.
Petrus, 33 St James Street SW1. Tel: 020 7930 4272. Tube: Green Park
Head chef Marcus Wareing was trained by Gordon Ramsay but don't let that put you off. Wareing dishes up some of the best cuisine in England here. The price is fixed for two or three courses, the wines are reassuringly expensive and the food is just right.
River Cafè, Thames Wharf, Rainville Road W6. Tel: 020 7386 4200. Tube: Hammersmith
It's all about the freshest and tastiest ingredients coupled with innovative cooking here. The river views give you a real feeling of peace and tranquillity in the mad world.
The Park, The Mandarin Oriental Hotel, 66 Knightsbridge SW1. Tel: 020 7235 2000. Tube: Knightsbridge
The Park is a hidden gem. I have three addictions: cigars, whisky and the duck spring rolls with plum sauce at The Park. The full menu is diverse and includes pizza, noodles and Indian curry.
Varun Sharma presents The Luxury Travel Show on Sky Travel and Sky Travel Extra until the end of March.
