Lucca

We recommend passing up Saturday nights here, when it’s packed full and just about everybody who’s anybody is there, and visiting Lucca during the week for a refreshing, long lunch or a solid cocktail and snacks after work. You wouldn’t believe it, but it’s even possible to grab your laptop and work in the corner at this time of day. Of course, don’t give up the weekends entirely – by all means, go there to see and be seen. Lucca’s perennial favourite, the duck papardelle, has retained its place on the menu for years, thanks to the insistence of regulars. Still, the menu bears seasonal changes, with this season’s star being the sea bass with a caramelised onion sauce. The sea bass comes served with potato puree, which we’re accustomed to seeing beside meat dishes; the plate is wholly flavourful, elegant and filling. For those who just want to have small bites with their drinks, we recommend the ciabatta pizzas with wild mushrooms or smoked entrecote. To leave behind all of your worries as soon as you sit down at the table, order a glass of Raspberry Royal, prepared with fresh raspberries and Prosecco. As for a wine selection with your drink – leave that up to the waiters who are masters at what they do.