The Game Bird

St James

Tucked away in one of London’s charming crevices in historic St James’s, The Stafford Hotel is a plush bolthole that thrives more on elegance than showmanship. Tradition is the order of the day at restaurant The Game Bird, which is located in a series of lump-cushioned lounges. Success can be found in the cured salmon – choose from a handful of varieties, including the classic London Cure from H Forman & Son and a sweet beetroot-cured number. The best part? Slices are served straight from the restaurant’s salmon trolley, with a vast array of condiments (think cucumber and dill pickle, mustard dressing, horseradish cream and finely chopped eggs). Classic British dishes are superbly executed from chef Ben Tish (pictured) and include pies, puddings and stews served with sauces to make your heart sing. A whole sole meunière and a côte de boeuf for two, which comes complete with beef-dripping potatoes and sauce Bordelaise, cosset and hug, while the Lyle’s Golden Syrup sponge with a generous serving of custard will melt any lingering troubles away.