The Mercer, Threadneedle Street, London

It may have only been open a few months, but the Mercer has the feel of a long-established favourite

If not as solid as the Old Lady along the street, the room has a substantial and somewhat New York feel to it. And the food continues in the same way, offering everything from hearty plates of a "full English City breakfast",  to other classics, such as Eggs Benedict. There's also the now ubiquitous porrige, as well as some delightful pastries (the Yorkshire pikelets are a must) and toast. Whatever you do, don't leave without trying one of the smoothies. We were steered towards the "Five-a-day",  which claims to provide you with all your daily fruit needs in one hit. It was astonishing and seemed to boost energy levels for at least a couple of hours. The morning of our visit was pretty quiet, a relaxing oasis away from the bustling streets outside, but then Friday breakfasts in the City are always fairly subdued.