Hawksmoor Seven Dials

Is there any stopping the hugely popular Hawksmoor group? As well as restaurants in Manchester and Edinburgh, plus a string of sites across the capital, 2019 saw its first opening in New York City. But we have to confess that this buzzy basement joint in the old barrel-vaulted Watney Combe Brewery is one of our favourites – and readers clearly agree. “Cannot fault it at all”, says one fan. “Always a winner”, declares another.

The recipe for success is a menu built around splendid 35 day-aged British steaks which are sourced from The Ginger Pig, paired with indulgent sides and served by friendly, knowledgeable staff who very rarely put a foot wrong. You can ask for their recommendations from the long list of cuts chalked up by weight on blackboards, before tucking into starters such as punchy potted mackerel or sweet and crispy Old Spot pork belly ribs.

After that, simply mix and match from the addictive line-up of sauces and sides (classic béarnaise, bone marrow gravy, beef-dripping fries, baked sweet potato, mac ‘n’ cheese) to create your own steak heaven on a plate.

The wine menu majors in beefy reds, but expertly made cocktails are well worth a punt here too, with mixes including the signature Shaky Pete’s Ginger Brew. Head here on a Monday night to make the most of BYO when the corkage fee is just £5 on any bottle, while a hearty Sunday lunch of roast Longhorn rump with all the trimmings is a relative steal at £22 per head.

Still want more? We heartily recommend the gut-busting desserts such as sticky toffee pudding with clotted cream – though our favourite sweet treat has to be the addictive salted caramel Rolos; so popular that you can even take a box home with you at the end of the night.