Patara

Concentrate on the food and you won't be disappointed by the Patara chain. The menu has a wide choice of dishes, with good use of UK produce weaved into classic and modern, upmarket Thai cuisine.

The satay is better than most, with mouth-wateringly tender morsels of chicken, beef and prawn, and a sauce that begs to be mopped up to the last drop. Corn-fed chicken with pineapple and ginger in a garlic sauce was equally delicious, and all dishes displayed competent cooking and a clear respect for quality ingredients. There's a fantastic cocktail menu too, making this a great venue for a night on the town.

Unfortunately, on our visit there was a large party dining, and a 9pm table didn't materialise until 9.30pm. We were left waiting with no drinks and no apology. Decor is stylish, with wood panelling, cosy low lighting and minimalist furnishings. Ask for a table in the main section, or downstairs if you prefer a cosier vibe, but avoid the small corridor of tables by the bar. Overall, this is a pleasing restaurant, but its popularity can lead to shortcomings in service.