Restaurants

South Ken institution Daquise has been packing in a mix of faithful London Poles, bright young things with an eye for a bargain and passing tourist trade for over 50 years. Who needs sleek designer decor and chilly, distant service when plastic tablecloths, well-worn banquettes and friendly but stern waiting staff keep us coming back for more? From coffee and cake in the morning to nalesniki for lunch or the full works for dinner, Daquise wont disappoint those looking for the real deal, retro Polish style. Rich, peppery barszcz z uszkami (tender little wild mushroom ravioli) and melting herring with sour cream set the tone. Polish platters are a great idea if you want to try a range of homestyle favourites: pierogi, bigos, golabki and potato pancakes heavy, slightly greasy, scarily calorific but deeply satisfying. Other classics include duck with apples and zrazy with nutty kasza gryczana (roasted buckwheat). To help all this down, theres the usual range of Polish beers (Zywiec, Okocim) and clear and flavoured vodkas. If youve still got room, dont miss the sweet cheese pancakes or szarlotka (apple cake).

Time Out Eating & Drinking Guide 2008