Alma Restaurant & Bar, Chelmsford

Family-run Alma has been renovated, and now features black leather chairs and dark wood tables set off with subtle lighting. Check out the toilets for excerpts from British hit comedies including Fawlty Towers, Only Fools & Horses and Monty Python.

• Opened: 17 November

• Owners: David and Sheila Hunt

• Head chef: James Blowes

• General manager: Robert Tyzack

• Capacity: 85, plus 40 outside

• Food: Traditional dishes with a modern twist include duck breast with parsnip mash, young carrots and port-glazed onions, and mini burgers

• Prices: Starters from £5.50, mains from £11.95

• Typical spend: £20, excluding wine

• Address: 37 Arbour Lane, Chelmsford, Essex CM1 7RG

• Telephone: 01245 256783