Restaurants

With its block creams and deep reds, plus a smattering of hot pink cushions, theres something very grown up about Dylans. Its a bit reminiscent of an early 1990s airport club lounge. Located right at the end of the Piccadilly line, this two-tiered Cockfosters restaurant has proved popular with both champagne-quaffing businessmen and couples. In keeping with the just-retro decor, the menu harks back to a time when fusion was the last word in sophistication: delicious crispy thai salmon; silky sweet-potato and coconut soup; barely overdone trout with olive gnocchi, stir-fried asian vegetables and artichokes. It was good enough to keep us deliberating despite being ravenous. The bread (olive, sun-dried tomato, cheese and onion) was frequently offered, thanks to faultless service from owner Dylan Murray and his black-clad staff one of the qualities that earned Dylans the accolade of runner-up in the Best Local Restaurant category of the 2006 Time Out Eating & Drinking Awards. Sundays feature jazz musicians alongside traditional roasts or set menus. Enthusiastic home cooks can sign up for one of the restaurants cookery demonstrations.

Time Out Eating & Drinking Guide 2008