Smith & Wollensky Smith & Wollensky is renowned for being a first-rate American steakhouse, similar, some might say, to an aircraft carrier: infinitely mighty and full of self-confidence. The original Smith & Wollensky has been that kind of place since its inception in Manhattan (1977). However, since then it has managed to travel many miles across the great pond that divides our two great nations and finally docked, off Strand, in the Adelphi Terrace. As we were escorted into the restaurant by a very pleasant and animated member of staff, our hearts sank as we were taken past the crowds of young couples and families tucking into their mouthwateringly juicy veal chops. The smell of greasy food and delicious BBQ sauce was enough to make even the most uncompromising of vegans go weak at the knees, but we knew tonight, we wouldn’t be setting off on a meat-lovers pilgrimage, but rather (a cocktail crusade?) With the taste of delicious Iowa beef still lingering on our tongues, we were ushered downstairs to a …

Located in the heart of Covent Garden lies the reincarnated ‘Diana’s Diner’, which until Wednesday evening had closed its doors for good. Historically known for being a popular greasy spoon owned by a buxom red head, what has been re-established couldn’t be further from its heritage.  At least on the surface anyway, as despite the chic ‘low key, high end’ ambiance, a hint of the infamous Diana remains. Whether it be the dimmed lights and sexy pop-up art splashed boldly across the walls, or the lipstick kiss prints pressed onto their menus and marketing. Hence the insiders nickname… Dirty Diana’s.   On arrival, we were warmly greeted by owners James Bulmer and Matt Tebbutt, who were only too happy to walk us through Diana’s journey. Executive Chef Chen Ng is the creative mind behind the menu- Savoy trained but with a passion for exceptional, explosive food that can be created in the back of a van following a stint doing just that in Singapore, Chen’s food was exceptional.  James and Matt had fallen in love …