The Balcon at Sofitel London St James

Located in the opulent Grade II listed Sofitel London St James near Trafalgar Square and Regent Street, The Balcon combines elegant neoclassical lines with theatrical grandeur and Parisian-brasserie chic style. The dining space is framed by large arched windows and fluted columns, while the spiral staircases provide a secluded space for the Champagne-tasting table. Separated from the main brasserie by silk curtains is a luxurious private dining room, which seats up to 16. The Balcon is open seven days a week for breakfast, morning and afternoon tea, brunch, lunch and dinner. 

New Zealand chef Matt Greenwood brings a hint of fusion flavours to the modern harmony of French and British cuisines with starters such as sauté de girolles with rosemary polenta, samphire and truffled egg yolk and yuzu-cured salmon with edamame purée, wakame salad and tobiko. Depending on the season, main dishes could include Elwy Valley lamb rump and shoulder with barley, roasted carrots, cavolo nero and broad beans, and lobster and seafood bouillabaisse with braised fennel and rouille. 

Afternoon tea and harp music can be enjoyed from noon to 6pm in the delightfully British Rose Lounge. There is an impressive range of teas from around the world and an exceptional selection of Parisian pastries, as well as finger sandwiches and scones with clotted cream and rose-scented raspberry jam. Drinks, including an original list of cocktails, are available all day in the 1920s-style St James Bar.