The great Brasseries of France are the most obvious inspiration for this hugely popular restaurant, but there are few places in Paris that can match The Wolseley for sheer plushness. Originally a 1920s car showroom, it was built on such an extravagant scale that it bankrupted Wolseley Motors. Swift black-clad waiters glide across the patterned marble floor, carrying groaning platters of fruits de mer, steak frites and lobster bisque between the pillars and archways of this Italian-influenced dining room. It's packed with celebrities at all times of day - we spotted a relaxed looking Ralph Fiennes brunching here last time - and booking a table is usually done months in advance if you don't happen to be Michael Winner.http://www.londontown.com/LondonInformation/Restaurant/The_Wolseley/a4ba/
