Gaucho (El), London

El Gaucho serves traditional Argentinian meals which, in culinary terms, basically means that the menu almost entirely comprises grilled steaks and roasted chicken. El Gaucho produces its carnivorous feasts in an informal, barbeque-esque atmosphere, which encourages bustle, noise and general good cheer. The beef, flown in from Argentina, is of a consistently high quality. Be prepared, however, to wait for your steaks - character precludes efficiency, which all adds to the charm. There's no alcohol licence, but you can usually get away with bringing your own drink. Needless to say, it's cheap for such a great meat-fest but vegetarians are not well catered for here.