Darby’s

In the shadow of the US Embassy, this is Robin Gill’s homage to his late father, Earl 'Darby' Gill, a trumpet-playing jazz musician who toured the States in the 50s and 60s. It’s a massive space incorporating a big bar and an on-site bakery, with a café next door (where we can vouch for the magnificent croissants). It’s also great fun, especially when full, and popular with Americans visiting the embassy. The food is influenced by Gill's native Ireland and the USA – typically oysters and nibbles such as crispy beef nuggets, plus meat and fish cooked on a huge charcoal grill. The lack of anything serious in this area makes Darby's a unique venue, but, unless you have embassy business, is such an out-of-the-way place worth walking the extra 10 minutes past Brunswick House? In fine weather, yes – we reckon the outside seats could be a hot ticket. Also, the no-choice set lunch is excellent value, the Guinness is good, and fans of English wine will be treated to one of the UK’s largest selections.