A well kept secret amongst those in the know, this is a destination venue well worth seeking out.

The Venue
The Royal Institute of British Architects, opened in 1934, is guaranteed to impress – a striking art deco interior with high ceilings, engraved stone walls, wood and marble floors, and full-height windows which flood the room with light. Curved banquettes create a soft-edged dining area, with a central space showcasing the latest exhibition.

The Atmosphere
Popular for business lunches, there’s only a limited slot for dinner from 6-9pm on Tuesday evenings. It’s relaxed, with a handful of people browsing the displays while you eat, yet it still manages to be intimate and elegant enough for dinner à deux.

The Food
The menu is short and seasonal, with creative flair. Friendly staff settle you in with a slice or two from their bread basket; green olive sourdough, and a dark, subtly sweet pumpernickel are well worth trying.

Starters are presented like works of art on slate. Smoked duck breast in one corner, baby artichokes in the other, and duck sausage with rillette-like texture, on ribbons of golden beetroot and ‘cherry gel’ (£5.95). It might sound pretentious, but the combination of flavours is perfect, so you’ll happily allow it. Seared scallops (£6.50) are paired with pickled miniature romanesco broccoli, and cauliflower puree, a really light and fresh slate of food.

Mains continue with the same artful precision. Fillet of sea bream (£17.95) contrasts crispy skin with flaky fish, a rich fennel and potato rosti and braised and lightly charred gem lettuce. The dish is brought together by a buttery blood orange sauce, spiked with chives and zest. Half-moon ravioli pockets (£16.95) are stuffed with truffled goat's cheese, on a bed of samphire to cut through the richness, and garnished with cubes of yellow courgette and a black olive powder.

Desserts are perhaps the most experimental. Grapefruit and ginger tart (£5.50) is technically good, but lacks the punch promised by the headline ingredients. The refreshing shot glass of gin and mint granita hits the spot though. Strawberry and white chocolate macaroons (£4.95) are in danger of being overpowered by pink pepper sprinkles, and have the bite of a shortcake rather than chewy meringue. Basil and pistachio sorbet is definitely the star of the show on this plate.

The Drink
House white is a citrusy Sauvignon Blanc from Chile (£20 bottle, £5.50/£7 glass), or you can enjoy a glass of Prosecco for the same price. A plumy Chilean Merlot heads up the red wines, with a few other temptations on a carefully selected list.

The Last Word
The food is as beautiful as the architecture itself. Only share this place with your favourite people.

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