Abbaye (South Kensington), London

Found in the affluent heart of South Kensington, the Abbaye is a modern and welcoming Belgian bar and restaurant, containing both a large dining area and a more-relaxed bar with big, comfortable chairs to flop in while you wait for your table. Decorated in gentle greens and browns with soft lighting throughout, Abbaye is designed to be comfortable rather than sumptuous. The staff are friendly and attentive, and this is altogether a quality establishment. A high standard of Belgian cuisine is on offer, with an extensive breakfast menu and a great selection of mussel dishes. Specially recommended are the Belgian fruit beers and Leffe blonde which are, without exception, delicious and refreshing; there's even a selection of Trappist beers available. The original Abbaye is in Farringdon.