Dating from 1742, Old Street gastropub The Princess of Shoreditch relaunches this October after a refurbishment. Expect a Gallic twist to the modern British menu from head chef Benoit Doutres (Moulin de Mougins, France) – think ham hock and pickle terrine with raspberry and balsamic dressing and rustic bread, Suffolk cider–braised pork belly with carrot puree, baby turnip, spinach and black pudding, and cracklings polished off with lavender crème brûlée with peach compote.
Complementing the menu will be a 60-strong wine list with a large selection available by the glass and carafe and a good selection of hand-pulled ales. Downstairs will have a "more relaxed brasserie style while the upstairs restaurant will have a slightly more refined atmosphere," according to new owners Scott Hunter (Loungelover) and Maria Larsen of Corney & Barrow (76 Paul St., EC2; 0207-729-9270).
– Roger Clarke