On the corner of Wood Lane and the Uxbridge Road in Shepherd's Bush, Albertine's wine bar is one of the closest bars to the BBC, and as such you'll find a range of arty and newsy types, as well as normal people!

The interior is dark wood with candles, slightly rickety chairs and benches. It feels like somewhere you should debate existentialism, or plot a revolution, but in fact it's just as pleasant working your way through the extensive wine list and talking rubbish.

The service is laid back, friendly and sometimes feisty... and there's a bar menu with filling, tasty food including quiches and bakes, with a reasonable veggie selection.

Wallace and Gromit would be overwhelmed by the cheese selection chalked daily on the blackboard. If you're unsure which to choose, just state your tastes - are you a nutty or a creamy or a goaty person? And you'll be provided with a bespoke selection.

Cheese, wine and candelight? You can't say fairer than that (and the small upstairs room is a good place for a less frenzied Christmas lunch or dinner).