Eating out: Taste of things to come- Hot, happening and opening soon

Belgo, the Belgian-themed group specialising in moules, frites and 101 different beers, has opened its first branch outside the capital. Belgo Bristol (0117 905 8000) is in a 19th-century granary in the old docks area, but inside the design is futuristic, with metal stairs and loos, spot-lighting, communal tables and benches. And the waiters are dressed as Trappist monks, as usual. It may sound off-the-wall, but the London branches are packed nightly.

The recently launched Frith Street Restaurant (0171 734 4545) in Soho has introduced a six-course tasting menu for those who want to try Stephen Terry's fare. Terry, who made his name as one of the UK's most inventive chefs at Coast, offers such dishes as Smoked Eel with Caramelised Pineapple and Fennel Jelly, and Salad of Roast Wood-Pigeon with Pig's Trotter and Smoked Bacon, all for pounds 35. For those with less time to savour his talents, there are two set lunch menus: pounds 16 for two courses or pounds 20 for three.

1837 at Brown's Hotel (0171 408 1837) has brought in a new menu to see diners through the cold winter months. Options include Cream of Lobster Soup with Armagnac, Loin of Veal served with Ceps and Tarragon Sauce, and Hot Chestnut Pudding. And for the first time, the restaurant is offering a fixed-price menu - pounds 45 for three courses, including coffee and petits fours.