Parsons

They say if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.

Although, technically, they should say if it isn’t broken, don’t fix it.

Whatever.

The point is that the outstanding wine-centric Covent Garden restaurant The 10 Cases has opened a second spot in pretty much the exact same location. The seafood-focussed Parsons is set right across the street, in a thoroughly old-fashioned spot with a maroon-tiled facade, a white-tiled interior, antique mirrors and soft retro pendant lighting.

It’s on these tiles and mirrors that you’ll find their daily changing selection of fresh whole fish, which they rustle up into the mains. Pictures of oysters and shellfish on the wall tiling have prices and dressings scrawled next to them in marker. The permanent menu, meanwhile, details the starters and sides to your meal; you’ll find dishes like sea trout tartare with Bloody Mary jelly; lobster mash; and octopus with pork fat potatoes and parsley oil.

Plus, if you’ve accidentally wandered in there and happen to detest anything sea-bound, they also do an excellent bavette steak sandwich.

Not a bavette steak sandwich. Credit: Barnaby Newton

Drinks-wise, they’ve got things pretty well figured out across the street, so you’ll find a similar slew of excellently chosen wines, with literally dozens and dozens of bottles available from both the old world and the new – and a generous amount available by the glass. After all, if it isn’t broken…

…fill it up with wine.

NOTE: Parsons is open for lunch and dinner, Monday-Saturday. You can find out more, or book a table on their website HERE.

Parsons | 39 Endell St, WC2H 9BA

Like great food and Central London? Take a look at our guide to the best restaurants in Covent Garden