The working lunch can be a miserable thing ­– when did supermarket salads eaten al desko ever make the heart swoon? But thanks to these restaurants in Soho, those working in and around the area will be pleased to know, there is salvation. And it often doesn’t cost much more than your average meal deal.

DUM Biryani – ‘Dum’ is the technique of coal-steaming vegetables and rice, and DUM Biryani are masters at it. The pop art wall hangings and modest surrounds make the basement an excellent drop-in for a casual lunch. Even better when, every lunchtime Monday to Friday, you can eat for less than a tenner.

Blacklock – The ever-popular Blacklock is well known for its Sunday lunches. Hit them up on any other day of the week though, and you’ll have the option of the restaurant’s A-grade steak sandwich. On Mondays, meat is reduced to the price it comes out the butchers.

Bocca di Lupo – Italian food rarely gets better than this, from Bocca di Lupo’s chicken liver pappardelle to their suckling pig with chestnuts. Even a simple dish of fennel gratin with butter and parmesan could send you head over heels. Afterwards, when back on your feet, head over the road to Gelupo ­– BdL’s gelato shop is often touted as the best in London.

Kricket – When the queues are too long at Dishoom (which, let’s face it, is most of the time), head to fellow chilled-out Indian joint Kricket instead. The food is, after all, just as good – best see off the rabbit keema pao, the marrow naans, and the unmissable samphire pakoras.Continue Reading