Luca London - the best * value this side of the Atlantic

Disclaimer: For this meal, Luca sent some additional complimentary bites

Luca, holding 1*, has an absurdly inexpensive lunch scheme that anyone visiting London should check out.

Hugely under priced at 38 quid (I would have paid 50 quid for the main alone), it's available in the bar and served without delay, but also not rushed.

The fried artichoke suffered from no grease with a delightful crisp on the outside and a meaty bite. The salt of the cheese and sweetness of the onion rounding out a great first course.

The beef main is exactly what I'd want to be served in a world's best steak house, despite this being a temple of Italian cuisine. The smoked potatoes are such a smart addition to add depth to the plate and the bone marrow jus on point for the superior cooking of the beef.

Not featured on the lunch menu, but available to be ordered from the dining room menu, the polenta was so sultry in the, I have to stop eating this, I can't stop eating this, sort of way.

And to round out the satisfying meal, dark chocolate with raisins, a combination you don't often find on a menu. This grown up version of the American candy "raisinettes" was an absolute delight.

This introduction to Luca's cuisine, at an affordable price point, will only make you want to go back for dinner.

No matter the cost, this is really well done cooking, and a hidden gem amongst the vast clutter of London restaurants.

The Single Table pays in full for all meals it posts about.