Modelled on its opposite number at the Lancaster’s twin in Bangkok, Nipa comes with a long-established history as well as a view over Hyde Park. Nipa’s menu is the kind you could recite in your sleep – tom yum soup, fishcakes, spring rolls and satay, followed by ‘traffic light’ curries of different colours, pad thai noodles, head-clearing hot and sour salads and artfully carved fresh fruit – although it’s also worth checking out the chef’s specials (stir-fried sweet and sour sea bass with Asian vegetables, say). Prices are steep, but Nipa scores with its overall quality, care, classy interiors and lovely view.