CHELSEA. London restaurant legend Terence Conran started out with this quirky, elegant restaurant, which doesn't scrimp on a single detail. Sit within a Grade I listed building, where a bold blue color scheme and large, colorful stained-glass window dominate the white-table clothed, intimate and somewhat formal dining room. Beautifully prepared dishes include squid ink risotto with grilled squid and gremolata, deep-fried haddock and chips, and grilled calf's kidneys. The wine list is so large it's arranged in a three-ring binder. Diners looking for more laid-back environs can check out the downstairs oyster bar, which offers fresh seafood and a friendly atmosphere. 3-course prix fixe lunch £28.50. TUBE: South Kensington

CITY. Bonds is an award-winning restaurant that serves modern French cuisine in a sophisticated setting. The kitchen consistently turns out exceptional dishes, crafted with only the best foods from local suppliers. Breakfast is served daily, and weekend brunch is always a hit. The likes of roasted scallops, beef fillet and wild halibut can be found on the lunch and dinner menus. The full bar offers tapas, wine and cocktails and serves as a prime city meeting spot.

SOHO. This local chain, known for its bold red and gold exterior, offers solid service, fun atmosphere, and plenty of dessert options at each brasserie-like location. Beverage choices include wine, coffee, spirits, and hot chocolate. After strolling through the circus that is Soho, grab a flower-topped table and try a profiterole filled with white chocolate ice cream, a tarte of caramelized apples, or a slice of chocolate truffle cake. Limited seating is available outside when the weather permits. There are several additional locations throughout London. TUBE: Leicester Square

Soho bustles until late in the evening ­ and early into the morning ­ and Caffe Nero stays up with it, providing sustenance and a place to rest. Outside seating is like being ringside for a big people-watching event, and inside, the spotless bar offers additional views. The coffee is good too, and it comes mixed into everything from frappes and mochas to smoothies. Pain au chocolate, tiramisu, and strawberry cheesecake make fine accompaniments. There are numerous other locations throughout the London area.TUBE: Leicester Square

KNIGHTSBRIDGE. For more than a decade, this hotel restaurant has been turning out French and English cuisine of the highest caliber. The refined dining room ­ dressed with chandeliers, gilt-trimmed mirrors, and orchids ­ is the ideal setting for high tea, with silver services bringing fine sandwiches, pastries, cookies, cakes, and, of course, a wonderful assortment of teas. It is one of the more expensive tearooms but with quality and elegance to warrant the price. Lunch 3-course £29.50; Afternoon tea £15.50; Dinner 2-course £48, 3-course £55; 6-course tasting menu £70, with wines £117 TUBE: Knightsbridge