Every now and again, this column happens upon a real find — something that should be the subject of a public service broadcast or whatever its equivalent is for PAs.
It is into this category that the curiously named Perc%nto falls. It would be easy to go past this unassuming and deceptively small-looking restaurant without really noticing it. But that would be a mistake: if you need to organise conferences, board meetings or business entertainment in chic surroundings, with great food, in a central London location, then surely Perc%nto ticks all the boxes.
Almost next to St Paul’s Cathedral, there is a light-filled restaurant and bar at ground level. Down a spiral staircase, a second restaurant serves an à la carte menu, and off this there are four rooms, perfect for business — on the day I visited, a large group of City men were enjoying a networking lunch.
Two of the rooms can be turned into one to take up to 120 delegates theatre-style, or around 90 private diners. The other two cater for up to 22 people. Décor and furnishings are stylish, the loos are impeccable, and technical facilities include video conferencing.
However, it is really the food and drink that sets Perc%nto apart — the standard is completely removed from the normal conference fare. The Italian cooking is terrific, using the freshest ingredients; the wine list is similarly impressive, and it is possible to hold wine tastings here, with the head sommelier acting as guide.
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Good for: Excellent location, food and service.
But: Conference rooms lack natural light.
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Sample rates: (Applies to groups of 10 or more.) From £30 half-day delegate rate to include room hire, and light refreshments; £45 full-day to include breakfast, lunch, tea and room hire. Private dining, no room hire charge.
Perc%nto, 26 Ludgate Hill,London, EC4M 7DR, 020 7778 0010, www.etruscarestaurants.com