TOP FRENCH RESTAURANTS
HELENE DARROZE AT THE CONNAUGHTThe holder of two Michelin stars for her Parisian restaurant, Darroze picked up her first star for the Connaught restaurant this year. The food is inspired by her native Landes region in south west France, with dishes including chicken stuffed with mushrooms and spit roasted wild pigeon with grilled foie gras. 16 Carlos Place, W1K 2AL. 020 3147 7200, www.the-connaught.co.uk.
LE GAVROCHE
Since it was opened by the Roux brothers in 1967, Le Gavroche has been amongst the finest French restaurants in the world. The chef patron is now Michel Roux Jr, serving up classics like lobster mousse with caviar and champagne butter sauce, sole fillets with tarragon, artichoke and tagliatelle. 43 Upper Brook St, W1K 7QR. 020 7499 1826, www.le-gavroche.com.
LA TROMPETTE
The recent recipient of a Michelin star, this Chiswick restaurant has become a firm favourite with west Londoners looking for traditional, rustic French cuisine – charcuterie, confits and foie gras dishes are specialities – served with considerable contemporary flare by chef James Bennington. 5-7 Devonshire Road, W4 2EU www.latrompette.co.uk, 020 8747 1836.