HOT: Canteen at Royal Festival Hall

The Observer Food Monthly's best UK restaurant in 2007, this restaurant is so hot that its virtually impossible to get a table (or a booking, they book out two weeks ahead) for a pre-theatre meal. With the number of harried and hungry people waiting, I was impressed by the unfailing politeness and friendly manner of the wait staff. When I finally did get a table, it was in a little padded cubicle with an arched lamp, which reminded me of the study cubicles at the library, except much nicer. And the food was great. Quick, fresh, tasty and generously portioned, my daily pie and mash with service came to £11.