New Openings

 

Opening on 22 January, newcomer Benja will be housed in an opulently decked out three-storey townhouse in Soho. The food promises to be a cut above the average Thai: dishes include choo-chee curry with roasted duck and grapes, grilled lamb wrapped in betel leaves and grilled prawns in tamarind sauce. 17 Beak Street, W1. Tel: 020 7287 0555.

The people behind modern Indian Mint Leaf are opening a second restaurant next February in the City. They haven't yet fixed on a name for the new establishment, but the food is expected to be similar to the Haymarket original, though decor will be lighter in feel. Angel Court, off Throgmorton Street, EC2.