Mark’s Club, 28-50 and Chez Bruce

A good friend of mine, when it his turn to take me out for a six monthly lunch, favours the exclusive restaurant clubs of Mayfair. The service is first rate, the food is always reliable and one can talk discreetly. Yesterday he invited me to Mark’s Club which was founded by Mark Birley, the owner of Annabels, but sold onto Richard Caring. The last time I was there Mrs Thatcher was sitting on the table next door. It’s that sort of place. One of the features of these clubs is the quality of pictures on the wall. It’s very much a cosy country house feel. I ordered langoustines served in a lime salsa with salad and grilled dove sole, not very imaginative on my part but all well cooked. As with such places the guest menu has no prices but I imagine it’s expensive.

In the evening I met a girlfriend at a more traditional hostelry, 28-50 where I have always eaten well.

The interesting thing about this restaurant is that it does not seem to matter what you order – we had 3 courses and very good white burgundy – it always works out at £75 per head. The is always a buzzy atmosphere.

Finally I must mention Chez Bruce in Wandsworth where I ate a few Saturday ago. It was as near to dining perfection as I have experienced – there is a three course menu and I had scallops, venison and a tart for desert. Everyone complimented the food, wine and service and everyone wanted to return though you will not be surprised to learn that bookings for a respectable time slot on a Saturday must be made months in advance.

So three very different restaurants alll offering a great experience. There is a theory doing the rounds which runs that dining inthe UK has so improved that consumers would prefer to spend £75 on a meal than clothes which is why high street retail is suffering. Mind you, restaurants, haute couture, millinery, perfume – Daffters is always ready to spend!!!