Hotel du Vin & Bistro

Nestled in the heart of the old town, in what was once an 18th century insane asylum, Hotel du Vin specialises in serving up French-inspired comfort classics by candle light. So far, so oh-la-la.

The walls are varnished in a Belle Epoque brasserie mood and cluttered with retro miscellany, in what is a new made-to-look-old style. That said, with original oak floors and rustic furniture, the result is both welcoming and atmospheric. The à la carte menu is one that will delight the carnivores, with a grill section boasting dry aged steaks that have been matured for a minimum of 28 days. The wine selection is equally impressive, albeit you might have to break the piggybank. There's also a mezzanine bar, a whisky snug, and a courtyard cigar bothy. That do you?