Entering Brasserie Zédel is like walking down a flight of stairs into 1920s Paris. On any given night, this Art Deco dining hall is packed with people eating brasserie classics like steak au poivre and oysters with wine, while a swing band plays but not in an annoying way. But aside from the room and ambience, the most impressive thing about Brasserie Zédel is the price. For the setting, it’s very affordable, and you can get away with dinner and a drink for under twenty quid. It’s popular, alas, but you can avoid queueing if you book ahead. The adjoining Bar Americain is a good spot for a late-night cocktail or aperitif before hitting the main room.
