Randomness Guide to London Menu

A classy wine bar and restaurant in Marylebone, serving mainly French food. There is another branch in Fetter Lane - both specialise in enormous wine selections and are sister restaurants to Texture, W1H 7BY.

Kat visited with her parents on a Friday lunchtime in July 2012. We had booked online; there were empty seats at 1pm but within half an hour they were very quickly filled, mainly by business types and the usual well-off Marylebone residents. There is a large triangular bar in the centre of the room with overhead wine glass racks that is pleasingly reminiscent of an old pub, despite the otherwise modern decor.

The wine list has a huge range of both price and variety, and most are available by the glass or carafe. There is also a separate 'collectors' wine menu which offers more expensive wines by the bottle (we're talking £50+ here). Kat's small glass of (excellent) Riesling was from the middle of the main list and cost £3.70.

The smoked salmon starter (£8) went down well, although the tomato & goat cheese tart (£6.50) was a little dry and unexciting. This was made up for by the main courses of pork belly (£15) and confit duck leg (also £15). Both were outstanding in terms of flavour and texture, in particular Kat's duck was mouthwatering and not too salty. The portion size could have been slightly bigger but to be fair I could have eaten an entire duck's worth of it. Creme brulee for dessert had an unusual layer of peach compote at the bottom - this didn't quite work texture-wise but the flavour contrast was a nice change.

Service throughout was fine despite getting very busy at times. Water and a basket of fresh bread was provided without prompting and the staff were happy to give recommendations about matching wines. A 12.5% service charge was automatically added to the bill.

Accessibility: no steps to get in, not sure about toilets.

Kat's verdict: I would happily return and eat more duck here.