The Ivy

The Ivy takes centre stage as one of the most famous restaurants in the world, almost as well known for its theatrical associations as for its sublime modern European cooking. Appropriately, it was the French actress and singer Alice Delysia who inadvertently gave The Ivy its name, "we will cling together like the ivy," she said when the restaurant was undergoing building works, borrowing the line from a popular song. A stalwart of the London restaurant scene, The Ivy has been on this corner opposite the Ambassadors Theatre since 1917 but it really came into its own in the 1930s when Noel Coward and Laurence Olivier frequented the place. In 1947 part owner Mario Gallati moved on and opened Le Caprice and today both restaurants are owned by Caprice Holdings who also look after J Sheekey and Daphne's. Although The Ivy is famous for the difficulty of booking a table, what with celebrities and half of theatreland dining here, it's well worth the effort. Once inside there's no sign of any snobbishness, the staff are not only extremely courteous and professional but also friendly. The dining room is plain and elegant, matching the simple but stylish menu. Hamburger, fishcakes and kedgeree are heading towards the comfort food end of the spectrum but there really are no bad choices - the food is absolutely first class. Don't forget to put your best frock on - the paparazzi regularly camp outside to get a snapshot of the A-listers who dine here.

Dress code: Ties are not required. Gentlemen are requested not to wear shorts.