Off the Hook at Paxton's Head

Off the Hook is a traditional English restaurant situated above one of the oldest and most ornate pubs in London's Knightsbridge area - Paxton's Head. The pub was originally founded in 1632 during the reign of Charles I and was called King's Head; it was renamed Paxton's Head in 1902 in honour of Joseph Paxton, who designed the world-famous Crystal Palace for the Great Exhibition of 1851.

Off the Hook serves well-prepared, traditional English fare created by the former head chef of another famous London watering hole - The Grenadier - and thus presents an instant interest to all who are keen to sample a slice of English gastronomic heritage. The food is fresh and uncomplicated; we started with rustic homemade fishcakes, served with a refreshing salad, and my partner had the moules mariniere. For the main course I opted for the surf and turf, which featured a 30-day-matured sirloin steak with king prawn skewers and my partner sampled the grilled halibut, one of the day's specials. The steak - which came with chips and salad, as well as those skewered king prawns - was cooked to perfection and there was no doubt that the halibut and its side order of vegetables was as fresh as could be. In terms of drink, Off the Hook boasts a strong wine list; expertly put together and reasonably priced, it guarantees a good choice of wine to complement your food. For dessert we happily devoured a baked cheesecake and a gooey chocolate tart.

This fabulous new restaurant - situated in one of the most traditional and ornate pubs one could hope to find in central London - represents a delightful, reasonably priced alternative to so many other eateries in this part of town. With such great food and a generous helping of Victorian elegance and charm besides, Off the Hook might just become your new favourite haunt; it's certainly found its way to the top of my list.