I really hope Aubergine at the Compleat Anger has opened in time to get a Michelin Star in the 2009 guide as it certainly deserves one based on the meal my wife and I had the pleasure to eat a week ago.

Legendary London restaurant Aubergine is celebrating its 15th anniversary this autumn. In October, it will also open a sister restaurant, Aubergine at The Compleat Angler, when it will take over the fine dining restaurant of 400-year-old country house hotel, The Compleat Angler, just outside the historic town of Marlow, Buckinghamshire.

This Marlow offshoot of Aubergine shares a great deal in common with the Chelsea original – finely wrought & beautifully presented French food courtesy of executive chef William Drabble, a wonderful wine list & an enticing cheese trolley, plus smooth, seamless service.

On arriving at Aubergine, one is immediately impressed by its spectacular setting overlooking the weir on the Thames.... there is a complete sense of welcoming calm and assured professionalism. The attention to detail drills down to the aubergine embossed cutlery handles.