Martin Williams on his favourite Toast the City venues

Bank, once a bustling hub of financial institutions, has transformed significantly since Martin Williams began his career in the area with Gaucho in 2004. Williams now oversees 33 venues as the CEO of the Evolv Collection, with nine of those located in the Square Mile. One of his favorite spots in the City remains Brigadiers, situated at the end of the Bloomberg Arcade.

The restaurant offers a delightful terrace for after-work relaxation, featuring dishes like goat tiki bun kebab, Sancerre, and pinot noir. Williams also praises the service and the restaurant's ability to cater to various tastes, from fine wine and cheese pairings to wood oven specials and tandoori lamb chops. Another cherished venue is 1 Lombard Street, a grand domed venue that was once a banking hall.

The restaurant, run by former banker Soren Jessen, has consistently delivered elevated comfort food with British seafood and meats. Jessen won the City's first Michelin Star here, and the venue remains a gathering place for deals and celebrations. However, due to a sale process, the restaurant may undergo a change of ownership in the near future.

Coq d'Argent, located at 1 Poultry, is another favorite spot for Williams. Renowned for its Burgundian cuisine, the restaurant has been a beloved destination for over two decades. Chef Damien Rigollet has continued to offer exceptional dining experiences, with dishes such as asparagus tasting menu, escargots de Bourgogne, and Dover sole.

The restaurant's rooftop terrace adds to its charm, and it has earned the prestigious Toast the City award for best roof terrace. As voting is now open for Toast the City, readers are encouraged to cast their votes for their favorite venues in various categories, including Best Restaurant, Best Breakfast, Best Bar, and Best Roof Terrace.