You can feed the birds at St Paul's, but much better to feed yourself at this gem of a nearby restaurant serving modern English cuisine.

The Venue
Situated right on the Thames Path, at the foot of the Millennium Bridge, Northbank enjoys uninterrupted river views across to the Tate Modern and the Globe Theatre. Floor to ceiling windows take full advantage of the fantastic view, and the restaurant is funky and charming at the same time. There are cosy leather booths as well as the tables dotted around the venue, all with crisp white tablecloths and candles. Trendy lighting and designer wallpaper adds to the distinctly modern feel.

The Atmosphere
Relaxed yet formal, cool yet laidback. The staff are extremely friendly and attentive and more than happy to advise on everything from dish choices to snacks at the adjoining bar. Being in the City, the restaurant is bound to attract lots of banking types for business lunches, but the attractive vantage point means that there are plenty of walk-ins.

The Food
Northbank Restaurant proudly uses proper British ingredients for its dishes, but with a modern twist. A starter of parsnip soup with thyme dumplings is incredibly creamy and well-seasoned, and oxtail ravioli is full of flavoursome meat and served with creamed leeks and topped with truffle. Main courses are equally delicious. Venison is cooked beautifully medium-rare to order, and served with a rich gravy, cabbage and bacon. West Country pork belly is served on top of creamy mash, rolled up with spices and impossibly tasty and soft, and topped with an interesting combination of clams, spicy sausage and pork crackling.

Desserts are preceded by a chilled shot of apple cider brandy, a house specialty. The cheeseboard is adorned with British treats such as Cornish Yarg, along with quince jelly and crackers. Chocolate and pistachio terrine is decorated with caramel sauce, and is rich and very chocolatey, with a pleasing scattering of crunchy pistachios throughout.

The Drink
The wine list is extensive and takes in all parts of the world, from France to Lebanon, and even has a good selection of British wine. For the really adventurous, there’s fruit wine which includes parsnip. Wine can be by the bottle, glass or carafe. If something a little stronger tickles your fancy, there’s a full bar and you can choose from anything from mead to sherry. The beer, too, ensures that the English are well-represented with plenty of ale and lager, as well as the rest of Europe.

The Last Word
Northbank Restaurant looks destined to become a home for fantastic British food and impressive drinks, and all with the bonus of beautiful views of one of the best areas of London.