The Riding House Café
43-51 Great Titchfield St London W1W 7PQ
This could yet be our favourite place in the centre of London of a sit-down a cup of tea or coffee, or quick bite to eat, when we're roaming around town. Situated handily just off Oxford Street, it has the informality of the best greasy-spoin while serving food that's a cut above most places, let along the rubbishy joints you tend to find around Oxford St and the northern reaches of Soho. Breakfast is served until noon, and you can have anything from poached eggs on toast to steak and eggs or a reasonably priced Full English. They also do Bircher Muesli and really good American-style pancakes. Lunch and dinner revolve around steaks and burgers, a handful of excellent fish dishes and some great 'small plates' for £5 a pop – things like seared scallops, chicken livers or lovely small salads.