HOT: Chez Gerard, 9 Belvedere Road, London, SE1 8YL

After a couple of disappointing meals at Canteen, Tim and I decided to try another pre-theatre venue at Southbank. Chez Gerard is an example of when a chain restaurant works - you can be assured of a consistent quality of food, attention to service and a willingness to seek feedback. Our £15.95 prix fixe menu including two courses were brought promptly, the French fare was pretty good (properly raw lamb, succulent red mullet) and we were constantly asked whether everything was to our liking, a change from the usual disinterest shown by London waiters.