Bouchon Bistrot in the market town of Hexham, in Northumberland, was voted the best local french restaurant in the UK on Channels 4’s the F word.

Inside the grade II listed building, Bouchon boasts a wooden bar, beautiful padded door, red carpets and fancy curtains. It’s a very comfortable place to sit. There are three floors. I have been twice with lyra and sat downstairs – which is small and cosy, and on the first floor – which feels posher. One of the rooms has a black padded ceiling and there are some great French pictures on the walls

No one makes burgers like they do in the States. At least that’s what my husband thought before we went to the newly opened Byron, Proper Hamburgers in Canary Wharf.

It was a spur of the moment decision, inspired by a tweet by @manne. His photos of the restaurant’s retro diner-style banquettes and tables, cool central bar eating area were what originally drew us. We were, however, unprepared for the tables with a panoramic view of the DLR station. Jack was overcome with excitement

We first went to Galvin La Chapelle for my fortieth birthday dinner. And what a place for a special dinner. The setting is stunning: eglomisé mirrors, dark wood, nickel-coloured metal and some amazing lighting. The service was impeccable, the wine and the food wonderful. So, when I discovered that they were launching a family Sunday lunch, I was more than a little excited