VQ, Bloomsbury

Set against the busy backdrop of Tottenham Court Road (and a mere stone’s throw away from the British Museum), VQ 24 Hour Cafe and Diner offers something novel to the area (hint: it’s in the name!)

Although its alcohol license only extends to 2am, VQ offers a dining experience any time of day, including parties. The food menu is full of standard staples such as fish and chips, chilli con carne and ribeye steak, but there is a large 24-hour breakfast section spanning from bubble ‘n’ squeak to kedgeree. I had the steak which was nicely cooked, and my guest had the grilled salmon with hollandaise sauce and sautéed potatoes – one of the standout options on the ‘mains’ menu.

VQ offers a fairly standard drinks menu, with Birra Moretti and Old Mout cider available for those who fancy something a little different. The cocktails are well made, with old classics being the flavour of the menu (the whiskey sour was particularly nice).

The atmosphere, however, was a little lacking (at 7-8pm midweek) but this may come with the territory for a large place that has such long opening hours. Perhaps it gets livelier in the early hours. The staff were friendly, although if you are planning on dining as a large party it may be worth booking ahead to make sure your table won’t be waiting too long between drinks. Overall, the location and presentation are quite elegant but the food and drink on offer are of a more standard nature – good enough value, but nothing outstanding. However, if 24-hour food and drink availability is what you need, look no further.

VQ 24 Hour Restaurant
111 Great Russell Street
Bloomsbury
WC1B 3NQ

Tel: 020 7636 5888