Pass on Simpson's! Even our London friends say it is nothing like it was in "olden days". We had rotten service, mediocore food..when 2 people order the same side dish and are served one and told there is enough for 2 there , while the other people at the table get the same amount for one and then you are charged for 2 that is a bit much. It was probably the worst meal we've had in 30 years of traveling in the UK!

I love Tapas! Thanks for the suggestion!

Thanks for your suggestions. And Ira, I cannot wait to use "fusty" while on holiday. I just love that word! :)

Thankfully I'm a pretty open minded person and enjoy a variety of settings and foods. We'll just have to wait and see what happens.

Cheers! :D

If you happen to get to London in the afternoon, you might also want to consider going to lunch for a special meal. I went to Gordon Ramsey's restaurant at Claridge's for lunch and while expensive, it was markedly less than dinner there and the food was fabulous.

I also liked OXO (the restaurant not the brasserie). The food was great and the view over the Thames was fabulous. We spent about $250USD for dinner but didn't drink much. It is definitely not Gordon Ramsey/Angela Hartnett caliber, but I loved the view.

I've only been to London once, but I was very impressed by the dining room at the Chesterfield Mayfair Hotel.

I had Sunday brunch there, the best roast beef I've ever had in my entire life (I live near Chicago).

Brunch was so good, I had to try dinner another night. I had filet medallions, again the best I've ever had.

I couldn't believe the quality of the breads (been to Paris nine times). When I complimented the restaurant manager he smiled and said, "Well our baker is a Frenchman."

The desserts were mouth watering fabulous.

Wonderful selections of wines. Michelin star service. Incredible value for the money. Should easily meet your budget requirements.

The dining room is pleasant, no great view though. Afterwards you can enjoy a drink or coffee in the very cosy jazz bar.

I highly recommend this place!