Paramount

Given the name of the restaurant (Paramount means of the greatest importance or impact) and given that it is on the top floor of Centre Point (the not so pretty but very high building bang in the centre of London) we were expecting a good view from our table but certainly not the blow your mind view of London we were met with.

All tables at the restaurant are positioned to make the most of this asset but we had a prime spot by the window to soak it all in. Given the views you might excuse the restaurant for resting on its laurels and losing focus on the food but this certainly wasn't the case as we quickly discovered after devouring our starters of steak tartare and pan-fried foie gras (the lobster and crab starters looked equally delicious on the next table). After a delicious cod and chorizo main I was so impressed I had to ask whether the restaurant had a Michelin Star. It hasn't, yet, but the food was certainly of that ilk and reading a bit more as to the background of the head chef who has worked with Tom Aitken at his Chelsea restaurant and at the Ivy you begin to understand the level of dining I am referring to.

Paramount is actually open all day serving breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea and dinner and would be suitable for any occasion, a business lunch, a romantic dinner or afternoon tea with your Mum. The prices I also felt were reasonable when you consider the location and quality and they did a set lunch menu that was 2 courses for £23.50 or 3 courses for £28.50.

The one gripe I had was the furniture in some parts looked a little dated but that might be down to personal taste more than anything and as if the view from your table was not enough they have a viewing level one floor below which has floor to ceiling windows and allows you a full 360 degree view of London. This view plus a cocktail has to make for perfect first date material.