Gate

Widely considered the best vegetarian restaurant in town, this destination eatery has a poor location behind the Hammersmith Apollo and is surrounded by flyovers, but the inventive dishes (aubergine teriyaki, shitake wonton and pumpkin laksa, rocket cannelloni), friendly and welcoming staff, and the relaxed atmosphere of the large, bright dining room overlooking a quiet courtyard make the trek here worthwhile. Surprisingly enough, it’s the desserts, such as the orange and Cointreau cheesecake, that get recurring rave reviews, as do the simple but inspired starters and the fine wine list.