Coq d'Argent

Few London restaurants enjoy the enduring popularity that surrounds Coq d’Argent. A long-time favourite in business diaries across the capital, the restaurant has been pulling in the corporate crowds since 1998, in part thanks to its “brilliant location” right by Bank tube station.

The restaurant is accessed via one of two dedicated lifts found at street level and once you’ve reached the rooftop, you’ll have the chance to explore Coq’s various crowd-pleasing attractions. In the summertime, the stunning roof gardens are the place to enjoy views of the Gherkin and Walkie Talkie with a cocktail in hand, while the wraparound terrace is perfect for alfresco dining. The outdoor space isn’t just for sunnier days though – look out for fun installations in the winter season too, such as faux ski lodges.

Inside, the dining room’s gleaming surfaces resemble a cruise liner in all its pomp. We’d be inclined to agree with those readers who reckon that the dark interiors could do with a refresh, although there is an old-school charm to the aesthetic.

The French-accented menu touts fastidiously sourced, luxury ingredients with price tags to match. Tuck into the likes of pasta ribbons with a glossy egg yolk at the centre and a handful of black truffle shavings on top, or 28 day-aged beef Rossini served alongside wild mushroom duxelles and a gamey Perigourdine sauce. Come dessert, Coq’s signature Pomme is the must order, an ‘apple’ that reveals itself to be a white chocolate shell concealing cream, apple chunks and chocolate crumb.

A gluten free menus is also available, as well as an impressively mature children’s offering. The restaurant’s wine list is another draw, overseen by a sommelier who knows what he’s talking about, while old-school service (suited staff, tablecloths dusted off between courses) is a hit with diners, all culminating in what one reader describes as a “faultless dining experience”.

Aside from having one of our favourite addresses ever (No.1 Poultry), Coq D'Argent is a luxurious space in the heart of the City of London, boasting a chic bar, lavish restaurant and stunning roof terrace. The menu is spearheaded by head chef Damien Rigollet, with the award-winning wine list coming from head sommelier Giuseppe Iacona.

The restaurant itself is an elegant, refined space, with white tablecloths and discreet but attentive staff. The bar, meanwhile, is a more relaxed setting, ideal for a post-work drink with a colleague or catch-up with a friend. Finally, the terrace and garden offer stellar views of the London skyline, with alfresco dining all year thanks to blankets and heaters.

Those looking to dine on a budget can enjoy the extremely reasonable set menu, which offers three courses for under £40. Options mainly consist of French staples including snails with garlic and parsley butter, comte tart and creme brulee. For more decadent options, diners can opt for the a la carte menu, which features more global entries such as teriyaki glazed octopus or falafel with violet artichoke salad. Seafood lovers can indulge with Colchester rock oysters or bouquet prawns, while caviar connoisseurs can enjoy Baerii, Oscietra or even Beluga, which comes with Taittinger "Comtes de Champagne Blanc de Blancs" 2005. 

For earlier visits, there is an excellent brunch menu. Diners can start their day with a Bloody Mary, Mimosa, Espresso or Aperol Spritz, before tucking into the likes of crab toast, eggs Royale Benedict, potato rostis, artisanal sausage and macaroons. The 38-page wine list is truly something to behold, offering grapes from all over the world at varying price levels. There is also an impressive range of sparkling, fortified and sweet wines, as well as a separate list of Taittinger Champagne, including a 2007 'Comtes de Champagne'.