Restaurants

Expect an upmarket, business clientele (lots of older men on not-so-hot dates with their laptops) and swift, efficient service to match. Bank Westminster has a fabulous setting. Tables set in a huge conservatory lit by dramatic overhead sphere lights look out over a grand courtyard complete with fountain, an impressive backdrop for alfresco dining. The menu is a varied, lengthy roster of crowd-pleasers: risottos, pasta dishes, steaks, oysters, fish and salads. While ideal for meeting the varied dietary requirements of a large business lunch, Banks something for everyone approach doesnt leave much room for specialism. We started with perfectly cooked asparagus with hollandaise (served with a slightly cold poached egg) and delicately spiced thai fish cakes; both were very good, if unspectacular. Mains received more praise. A huge chunk of tuna was cooked exactly as requested and served with a mound of greens, while haddock and leek risotto proved deliciously creamy. Despite its contemporary styling and constant buzz (things get busy on weekday evenings from 8.30pm), Bank isnt the edgiest venue in town, but its a reliable choice.

Time Out Eating & Drinking Guide 2008