Lorne restaurant review, Victoria ★★★★★

In a nutshell: This brand new restaurant is nestled in a quiet spot, five minutes’ walk from Victoria Station. It’s the creation of chef Peter Hall, formerly at The Square, and sommelier Katie Exton, formerly at The River Café.

The space: After being greeted by the incredibly welcoming staff, the space beyond is warm, cosy and relaxing, while maintaining all the elegance needed to match the wine list. Sink into the pale wood chairs topped with cushions, and take in the subtle décor.

Food and drink: On offer is seasonal British and European food, culminating in creatively crafted combinations. Fresh bread is topped up with perfect attentiveness between courses of mackerel, quail or cuttlefish starters, and main courses including lemon sole, guinea fowl, short rib beef and cod. Round off with a Yorkshire curd tart and builders’ tea ice cream, or chocolate pavé.

Lorne claims to be as passionate about wine and hospitality as it is food, and this much is true. It offers a well-rounded, full experience, with a passionate sommelier and extensive wine list.

Would we return? The convivial atmosphere and wine list make this the perfect regular spot for a relaxed, sociable evening among young professionals ending the day with friends. The evening started quietly, but energy levels soon picked up. As the main dining area is quite small, the intimately spaced tables allowed the good mood of diners to fill the room. The food wasn’t quite up to the same high standard, but worth a visit for the builders’ tea ice cream alone.