digest

LONDON

Glamour is not necessarily loud, so proves Le Caprice, Arlington Street SW1 (0171-629 2239). Designed by Czech architect Eva Jiricna, the place is sleek and cool. The suave receptionist treats first-timers like favourite customers. The food sets out to appetise, not impress. Expect the likes of good brandade, salmon fish cakes, eggs benedict. Vegetarian dishes. Open Mon-Sat 12-3pm, Sun 12-3.30, daily 6pm-12. Reservations advisable. About pounds 40. Major credit cards

EDINBURGH

There are curry houses and there are Indian restaurants. Spices, 110 West Bow, Grassmarket (0131-225 5028) is the latter, a small immaculate place where the food is served with the utmost courtesy and a quiet edge of pride. There will not be chicken tikka masala, but, perhaps, kitchen- made paneer smoked in the tandoori oven. Spices are the point, and whatever one orders will be more fragrant than Lady Archer. Vegetarian meals. Open lunch and dinner Mon-Sat. About pounds 18-pounds 20. Access, Visa, Diner's

EAST SUSSEX

Some restaurants capture their era. The Hungry Monk at Jevington (01323- 482178) is a sterling sample of Seventies hospitality. Set in a row of ancient cottages, it is elegantly creaky. Aperitifs and orders are taken in the bar. The food is great: nouvelle cuisine meets Connie Spry. Most notably, it is the home of the Banoffee Pie. Open Sun 12-2pm, daily 7- 9.45pm. About pounds 30. Cash, cheques