ALDWYCH. This modern, glass-adorned restaurant with its cool blue-and-silver scheme is located in a former bank building and is upscale without feeling pretentious. The staff is well known for keeping things running smoothly, no matter the size of the crowd. The place is also known for good, modern British cooking at breakfast or dinner. Breakfast dishes include beluga caviar with potato waffle and crème fraiche, fish cake with poached eggs, or lighter continental choices that offer a selection of teas, croissants, and cereals. Children's menu, too! Breakfast 2-course £14; Lunch 2-course £14, 3-course £16. TUBE: Holborn

KNIGHTSBRIDGE. This venue makes a perfect choice for someone who wants to experience afternoon tea without the attitude and contrived opulence of many tearooms. It offers all the classic tea accoutrements ­ light scones, flaky pastries, rich tarts, and delicate sandwiches. Instead of tuxedoes and gilded mirrors, you'll find comfortable furniture and a coffee table full of newspapers. A satisfying treat without being fussy or stuffy. Friendly service. TUBE: Knightsbridge

MAYFAIR. Intimate yet ultra-chic, Berkeley Square gives Mayfair hipsters a contemporary lunch venue where they can sample creative dishes like roasted salmon with cauliflower purée, slow-roasted pork belly glazed in honey and lavender, and saffron risotto with cherry tomato dressing. A perfect place to conduct a business lunch, Berkeley Square's sophisticated interior, designed by Shaun Clarkson, features aubergine curtains, smartly appointed tables, and mauve walls hung with abstract art. Prix fixe menu £20. TUBE: Bond Street or Green Park

CHELSEA. London restaurant legend Terence Conran started out with this quirky, elegant restaurant, which doesn't scrimp on a single detail. Sit within a Grade I listed building, where a bold blue color scheme and large, colorful stained-glass window dominate the white-table clothed, intimate and somewhat formal dining room. Beautifully prepared dishes include squid ink risotto with grilled squid and gremolata, deep-fried haddock and chips, and grilled calf's kidneys. The wine list is so large it's arranged in a three-ring binder. Diners looking for more laid-back environs can check out the downstairs oyster bar, which offers fresh seafood and a friendly atmosphere. 3-course prix fixe lunch £28.50. TUBE: South Kensington

MAYFAIR. Located on fashionable New Bond Street (the ritziest, most glamorous of addresses), this café sits in the lobby of the world-famous auction house. The place is an unexpected treat, offering simple lunch and breakfast options and an attitude-free staff. Mirrors and modern prints line the walls, and lunch selections include pasta with pancetta, gorgonzola and thyme, not to mention the famous, luxurious lobster club sandwich. Salads with tangy homemade dressings are popular, and desserts include an array of puddings, cakes, and chocolate treats. TUBE: Green Park or Bond Street