If you haven’t heard yet, this bar and kitchen is nothing like its grungy predecessor but instead exudes contemporary elegance and attracts legions of sophisticated young people to its doors.

The Venue
Rising up from the ashes of the legendary music venue – The Boat Race – The Vine is a sleek modern bar with an enviable decor.

It has shrugged of any remnants of the past in favour of a pale green exterior and interior, combined with simple wooden floors, an open kitchen and a steel and wood bar.

The chic decor is highlighted by the large amount of light streaming through the big windows.

Everything has been kept understated, except a large wood-framed mirror that adds a touch of quirkiness. There is also a lovely outdoor decked area that's ideal for a summer lunch.

The People
The classy interior of The Vine has rubbed off on the customers who are well turned out, but relaxed and friendly.

Service is attentive and welcoming and there's a hint of fun chaos coming from the open kitchen that adds to the buzz.

During the day there's a casual feel, but in the evening The Vine comes alive when a mix of cool young people and sophisticated professionals come out to drink cocktails.

The Food
Serving a high standard of British food with a stylish French twist, the menu is classed as modern European. They use only the finest local ingredients to create fresh dishes packed with maximum flavour.

Starters are around £5 and over, with mains coming in at around £12. There's a mixture of meat, fish and vegetarian dishes made with imagination yet pleasing simplicity.

The Drink
The drinks list is extensive and detailed, catering to every possible need. The wine list ranges from £11.50 to £45. It goes into detail about particular flavours and qualities of each wine, with a broad range of grape and region. They also have a recommended wine of the week.

Bottled beers include San Miguel, Cobra, Sol and Becks and are around £3.20. Ciders like Magners, Thatcher’s Pear and Addlestone Cloudy are priced at £4.10. On tap, for £3 to £4, there's Guinness and Becks as well as London Pride and Deuchars real ale for £2.90 a pint.

The spirits list is impressive with basics like Gordon’s gin and Havana Blanco for £2.50 for 35ml, but also premium spirits such as Belvedere vodka (£3.60) and Havana 15-year-old rum (£12.50).

They use these spirits to make amazing cocktails for £5 to £7, such as classics like Cosmopolitan and Mojito as well as their speciality - a creamy rich Espresso Martini.

The Last Word
For a touch of class and a superb choice of food and drink opt for The Vine.

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