Arbutus (Soho)

Quite simply this is still one of the most reasonable Michelin starred restaurants in London.  £23 for 3 courses on the weekend lunch menu (as well as weekday lunch) is outstanding value and the quality of the dishes was wonderful on this visit.  I particularly loved the snacks at the beginning which were on the a la carte, especially the quail’s scotch egg which was utterly sublime.  Wine is also available by the carafe adding to the easy going, comfortable and value for money mood of this restaurant; our chardonnay was very crisp and light and chosen well by the staff to match our dishes.  This is the sort of place one can drop in anytime and get well prepared dishes and which, most importantly taste excellent.  This is a completely safe bet option for great return everytime – really glad to have got back after 5 years (which I didn’t realise had been that long!) and return to what was clearly an upgrade in terms of the dishes.

Food Grade: 86%

Simply hands down one of the best places in London to have great value for money in the Michelin starred options.  I have been many times but sadly only have photos from one visit and in 2010 the set menu was £17.99 for three courses, which, for a Michelin starred restaurant is outstanding value.  Admittedly, there was only one choice for each course, but I can still remember the cottage pie for the main being superb.  The pig’s trotter from the a’la carte is superb and cannot fail to make you happy if you are a pig fan and ultimately it is a great little place for any visit.  Probably best suited for quick drop ins as opposed to a special occasion but in terms of food, it is certainly pleasing.

Food Grade: 77%