Situated in the newly renovated Sofitel London St James hotel, The Balcon is a grand brasserie combining French decadence and traditional British heritage. Every inch of its opulent interior, complete with ornate columns, a golden wire-work chandelier, oak and ebony striped wooden flooring, leather and mahogany furniture, and large, arched windows overlooking Waterloo Place and Pall Mall exudes old-world charm. And considering the swanky area, the prices are quite reasonable.

The Balcon takes an elaborate approach to fusing the highlights of French and British cuisine – think combos like steak tartare with crispy bacon, or Scottish rib of beef with Béarnaise sauce. In addition, Trealy Farm and Mas Le Rouget (both renowned charcutiers) offer their mouthwatering and award-winning dishes like smoked rump ham or rabbit and wholegrain mustard rillette.

But if all this meat isn’t quite what you’re after, The Balcon also houses a cute, Chanel-ish Champagne Balcony where you’re welcome to take your pick from an extensive menu of champagnes (quelle surprise), wines, and non-champagne sparkling wines.