Where shall we meet?: The Tsar's Bar W1

The area around Oxford Street is a bleak place to try to get a drink unless you like filthy carpets and lager. In the civilised environs behind the revolving doors opposite the BBC, the decor at the Tsar's bar isn't exactly outstanding, but everything else is designed to help you have a lovely time.

They have dozens of different vodkas, from Russian to Irish, in 13 gill measures at pounds 4-pounds 5 (you can drink other things too) which come complete with free babushka dolls full of pistachios and blinis with caviar at pounds 4.50. The staff suck up sweetly and empty your ashtray every time you go near it. Lovely for a week-night session with your best girlfriend.

The Tsar's Bar, Langham Hilton, 1 Portland Place, W1 (071-636 1000)