Anise

This much loved, pocket-sized wine bar has recently undergone a revamp with plaster blasted away on the back wall to reveal the natural beauty of old brick, and a few cosmetic tweaks to freshen it up without alienating its fiercely loyal regulars. The Gallic influence is more subtle, too; the menu caters to modern sensibilities with an engaging array of amuse, share plates and solid bistro mains. Whet the appetite with a bowl of crisp, salty deep-fried pig's ears, ready for dunking into honey and caper aioli. Silken-centred fried artichokes are partnered by an equally sleek parmesan custard and the salty punctuation of olives, while shreds of braised lamb neck are accompanied by a spring-like vignarola and pine nuts. Choose from a trio of simple desserts such as a pistachio parfait with vanilla and balsamic strawberries. Staff are chatty and well-versed in both the menu and wine list, making sure the basic ethos of a value-for-money, friendly local wine bar remains Anise's raison d'etre.