The Modern Pantry Finsbury Square, London, UK

When The Modern Pantry Clerkenwell first opened in 2008, its unusual dishes and specific blend of unexpected ingredients got everyone talking. Now, chef Anna Hansen has expanded to launch her second outpost, this time located in Finsbury Square. Set within the handsome Art Deco Alphabeta pile, the restaurant’s sharp interiors are down to New York-based design firm AvroKo, who – for its first London project – took advantage of the building’s original high ceilings, large windows and understated ornamentation, by introducing a reassuring mix of Danish-inspired walnut and leather furnishings and oak panelling, bolstered by a ceiling of hand-blown glass pendant lighting fixtures. Food, by head chef and long-time colleague, Rob Mcleary, follows the brand’s philosophy with unconventional, creative dishes using far-flung ingredients. Make a pit stop at the tapas bar for a couple of light, sharing dishes or book in to the restaurant for the full menu that comprises delights such as amchur & fenugreek marinated lamb rump with pea and lemon verbena puree accompanied by caramelized baby gem, pickled tomatoes and shallots.