30 Almeida Street, N1 1AD; almeida-restaurant.co.uk.
Nearest Tube: Angel

WHAT'S THE DRAW: British/French fusion Almeida, in a great spot right next to Islington's Almeida Theatre, is all about texture and invention.

WHAT TO DRINK: Course-by-course wine matching from a great list, which goes from classic French and European fare to more modern drops from Some Young Punks and Berry Bros & Rudd.

WHAT TO EAT: Snails with parmesan gnocchi (£10) to start, and the signature Côte de Boeuf (£32) for main, served with salted roast vegetables on top. As much a feast for the eyes as the tastebuds.