Restaurant File: London's Mayfair & Belgravia

As of summer 2008, this elegant, trendy newcomer is charmingly tucked away behind some of Mayfair's chicest streets. I enjoyed the Mediterranean, fairly basic cuisine, much of which is served in tapas-style portions, but I must admit, what we at my table enjoyed more was the fun people watching and buzz that New York seems to excel at many times over London. Feels like a Manhattan, Upper East side, chic eaterie. Our collective view was that the best dish served was the stuffed Mediterranean vegetables—if that's something you enjoy.

Next time you're craving Japanese, make Chisou your Mayfair pick. While it looks like your average sushi restaurant, with simple decor, a sushi bar and some tables, the quality of the food sets it apart—especially in London where there isn't anywhere near as many sushi options as most other big, cosmopolitan cities. At Chisou, Japanese staples like sushi and sashimi, tempura, salads, grilled dishes, rice, and noodles are all presented with simple, fresh elegance. Or, if you are feeling adventurous, try one of the chef's specialties, like the monkfish liver dish called Ankimo Ponzu. Interestingly, Chisou is renowned for its drinks menu, so whether you prefer sake or champagne, be sure to check out the selection.

For dinner with bling, you'll want to visit this posh eatery, a spin-off of the more wallet-friendly Galvin on Baker Street. Long known as a stuffy spot for old-timers, that reputation has been completely erased thanks to a multi-million pound overhaul in 2006. Now the pristine surroundings are a highly coveted perch where guests take in panoramic views of all of London from the 28th floor of the London Hilton on Park Lane. The chefs take the food to similar heights with their French influenced modern cuisine. The menu is full of enticing offerings such as asparagus, wild garlic, marscapone and aged parmesan and roast halibut fillet with crab, white asparagus and grapefruit vinaigrette. It's perfect for a romantic evening.

This candlelit French bistro is a Belgravia institution—not to mention one of London's most romantic restaurants. The scattered wicker baskets and bunches of dried flowers fill it with vintage charm. All the requisite French staples are present and accounted for, from French onion soup to coq au vin. The chefs here prepare items on the meat-heavy menu with a light touch—delicious foie gras, roast pigeon and venison. They work wonders with fish and vegetarian dishes, too. Request the back table by the window to best enjoy the leafy surroundings. In summer, the terrace is one of my favorite spots. The prices are refreshingly down-to-earth, and they operate under the unusual policy of pay-as-much-as-you-drink from a magnum of wine that serves as a centerpiece at each table.

A winding cobblestone walkway leads to the entrance of this restaurant, which captures the essence of Mayfair propriety with its fresh, beautifully presented British food. Menu highlights include sea bass on a bed of samphire (an edible coastal plant) and confit tuna with tomatoes and green beans. The restaurant unfurls over four floors of two converted Mews houses and the setting, with its white walls and wrought iron fixtures, is classic and understated. The ground floor bar is a study in traditional London opulence with chandeliers, gilt mirrors and a stylish crowd. In the 60-seat restaurant, the decor is toned down to a more countryside look. For an entirely different vibe, the subterranean lounge bar is a moodily lit nook with leather couches, mod-style stools and a long list of vintage champagnes and premium spirits.

The grand railroad station cafés of Paris and Vienna are evoked here in the magnificent, soaring decor, a vestige of the bank that long occupied the building. The cuisine, however, is quintessentially English. There's grilled and baked fish galore, roast beef, venison and Yorkshire pudding. And, of course, the tea service would please even the most persnickety Brit. This kind of top shelf service is not delivered spur-of-the-moment, though. You'll need to make your reservation weeks ahead for dinner, but breakfast and lunch are also served and it's less busy during those hours. Let's just say that interest keeps accruing within these walls.

This is Michelin-starred Japanese magic. The earth toned, wood-dominated design is more classic than cutting edge, more Kyoto than Tokyo. It's the modern sushi plates that will leave a lasting impression, even on the most jaded of palettes (including my foodie friend Krisha.) Spicy anchovy with sea urchin and blue-crab with pine nuts are just a few of the unlikely pairings that come together to dazzling effect? There's also a top sommelier to guide you through the esoteric sake list. Make a reservation for a Michelin-starred night. You'll be over the moon in no time.

This is a seafood-centric outpost of the Sardinian stalwart, Olivio. This one is more modern art gallery than restaurant. White walls are adorned with bright aquatic-themed prints and and shiny white plastic chairs are scattered about. The menu reads like an ocean inventory. The sea bass stuffed with black olives, sun dried tomatoes, thyme and garlic is truly special. Service is passable, but lacks a little in charm. Try to get a table outside in the summer, but be aware that everyone else in Belgravia might have the same aim. If you end up waiting, pay a visit to the adjoining Sardinian market.

This trendy Dover Street restaurant is an American-style brasserie in a white-tiled dining room that resembles a train carriage from the golden age. From burgers to crab cakes to coleslaw to the iceberg lettuce salad, the menu is jam-packed with diner staples and the air is filled with the voice of Frank Sinatra. The macaroni and cheese with bacon is one of their greatest hits.

Gavin Rankin's grand French brasserie is nothing short of fantastic. It's little surprise that it's practically a magnet that attracts a spangled crowd of celebrities and city bosses in seek of a gourmet dining experience. Succulent truffles, sublime terrines of foie gras and mounds of caviar are just a few of the gorgeously dressed stars of this blockbuster gourmet production. The concise wine list is fastidious.

What was opened by a fishmonger in the mid-ninteenth century has stood the test of time to become a London classic. Set in a beautiful room lined with works of modern art, Scott's is basically an oyster bar that turns out meat and game platters along with a roster of traditional seafood dishes. Any seafood here comes especially highly recommended. Try the rosemary-roasted monkfish with white beans, chorizo and padron peppers to the Glencoe venison with sprout tops and sour cherries. The service is excellent as well.

The famously irascible but brilliant Gordon Ramsay has hit—rather, thwacked—the nail on the head here. Book the chef's table in the kitchen. It's the culinary equivalent of being backstage at a Rolling Stones concert. Sort of. You get to lend a hand and listen-in on the chefs' banter. Amazingly tender meat, intense sauces and impeccable presentation are just a few of the reminders of this restaurant's well-deserved Michelin star. Mini tapas-style dishes are also available, including snail and garlic potato puree. It is a good idea to book in advance, but don't worry too much if you don't—the staff has been know to go out of their way to try to accommodate you at the bar as long as you're in the company of an entire football team.

Step inside here and leave London behind. This chic, Argentine haven is enormous, encompassing a bar/ lounge you actually want to hang out in, a beautiful, smart restaurant (even if you aren't typically fond of cow-hide as a mood-setting pattern). The wine cellar is well stocked, which is only to be expected considering how some of the world's most exciting new world wines come from this country's vineyards. The genteel and stylish sommelier is on hand to guide you along. There's also an emporium with shelves lined with Argentine greats for you to take home. The steaks are unbelievably tender—amenable even to the services of a spoon. Out with a group? There's a great semi-private dining room that seats up to twelve.