Tucked away in Covent Garden, Mon Plaisir has been serving up a slice of Paris since long before most of London's restaurants were even a twinkle in their founders' eyes. As the capital's oldest French restaurant, it wears its history with pride, offering four distinct dining rooms, from the vintage 1940s charm of the Front Room to the intimate mezzanine of the Upstairs, each with its own atmosphere but all steeped in Gallic character and warmth.

The kitchen is now led by Chef Sivasoruban, whose formative years in Parisian brasseries shine through in a menu built on classic technique and honest flavour. Expect the reassuring staples of French bistro cooking done properly: onion soup, escargots, confit de canard and a crème brûlée worth saving room for, all best enjoyed alongside a glass from the thoughtfully chosen French wine list. Vegetarian options are available, and the kitchen can accommodate vegan requests with advance notice.

Given its proximity to the Royal Opera House and the rest of Covent Garden's theatres, Mon Plaisir is a natural choice for a pre- or post-show meal, with set menus designed to keep things moving without rushing the experience. It's equally suited to a romantic dinner, a long lunch with friends, or a private celebration, with bespoke menus available for groups and events. Whether you're a longtime regular or a first-time visitor, this is a restaurant that has stood the test of time for good reason.