North Audley Cantine - Mayfair, London

Mayfair has long held sway as the premiere neighbourhood for big nights and big spending, which is why it's nice that the North Audley Cantine has opened on the namesake street. Well-priced, well-executed and unassuming in the classiest way, this new entry is perfectly calibrated as a culinary warm-up before hitting one of the neighborhood's many private members' clubs. 

Spearheaded by three Frenchmen in their mid-twenties with a penchant for joie de vivre, they've put together a drinks and dinner joint that injects a little youth into the often buttoned-up Mayfair milieu. Guests have the option of taking a seat in the upstairs dining room or the downstairs cocktail lounge. The former boasts white walls, brickwork and an airy, sophisticated ambience. The bar is a bit more moody, with dark wood panelling, mismatched furniture and plenty of antique mirrors in which to steal glances. 

The cocktail list leans toward British inspirations, particularly the Lady Grey which is crafted from Earl Grey infused gin, hints of vanilla and peach, a little lime & Champagne. Head chef Jeremy Coste has assembled a dinner menu consisting of light French small plates with the occasional international inflection. Two dishes that really stood out were the pissaladiére onion tart with anchovies and the exceptional Cabillaud panko encrusted cod goujons, served with a homemade tartar sauce. However, if you'd like something a bit more filling, there are some meatier options like sliced Scottish tenderloin with chips and chives or grissini crusted veal escalope with mixed salad and baby tomatoes. If you're after an elegant but fun intro to an evening out, NAC brings a lot to the table. 

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