Joel is a G. French chef Joel Robuchon's retirement was the best thing to happen to the culinary world since Gordon Ramsay's hair plugs. During his time away from the kitchen chef Robuchon was so inspired by his world travels, that he launched a group (now empire) of L'Atelier restaurants, which serve a hybrid style of French, Japanese and Spanish cuisine in a vibrant, counter style atmosphere. Stuffy white tablecloths are out and slick black, reds and sexy lighting are in. Good trade.

On the third floor of his Covent Garden culinary townhouse hides one of the city's best bars. Calm, loungey and warm, with L'Atelier's signature red and black decor, the bar usually serves as a spot for guests to enjoy a pre-dinner glass of his friend Bruno Paillard's Champagne, but BarChick goes here for the cocktails. Drink a Spiced Wine by the real fireplace or take your Daiquiris on the deck outside, where all you smokers will be in heaven.

Oh and if you ask nicely you can soak it up with a plate of L'Atelier's famous foie gras mini burgers from the downstairs kitchen, and wash them down with a Rosebud. Just don't tell everyone about it, please.