Petit Pois is a charming French bistro from Alastair Burgess, founder of award-winning bars Happiness Forgets and Original Sin, it's tucked away opposite Hoxton Square, thought to be one of the oldest squares in London. Occupying the ground floor while the basement is home to Happiness Forgets, so perfect for a pre or post drink before lunch or dinner. The cosy interior features exposed brick walls with appropriate Gallic pictures adorning the walls, antique French pendant lighting and cream coloured Chesterfield banquettes. There's a couple of tall seats set against the black and white tiled bar and further seating on the terrace when the sun shines.

Open throughout the day kicking off with lunch, chef Chris Smith has created a menu of traditional French fare along the lines of Cornish crab with Heritage tomato and lovage or for meat fans, crispy pork cheek, rhubarb and shaved fennel. The larger plates offer three options such as steak with hand-cut frites and Béarnaise sauce, Barbary duck breast served with salt baked beetroot and Jersey Royals and from the sea, pan-fried cod, mussels, sea vegetables and beurre blanc. Just two desserts close the show, with the pièce de résistance a scrummy chocolate mousse served direct from a large ceramic bowl, or you could opt for the Paris-Brest.

The wine list emphasises the regions of France with a few international offerings, together with well-crafted cocktails created by the teams at Happiness Forgets and Original Sin.

Petit Pois is also featured in: Michelin Guide

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French (Bistro)

Chris Smith

Lunch: 12.00 through until
Dinner: 10.30pm (9.00pm Sun)

Visa, Master Card

• Alfresco dining
• 25 covers

Nearest tube station: Old Street