Set cosily in a converted cottage in the heart of Harpenden, The Bean Tree offers dedicated foodies a destination restaurant to visit again and again. The ambience is calm and relaxed with a stylish modern slant. There is a really lovely walled courtyard sheltered by an Indian bean tree -- hence the name -- where diners can enjoy themselves in the warmer months. The menu is French and no mistake. Chef Pascal Deroubaix is passionate about the quality and freshness of his ingredients, and he takes great care with his sourcing. The seasonally-changing menu includes wonderful dishes like starter of steamed scallops, fine beans and trompette de mort casserole with paprika butter sauce, main course of shelled lobster in lobster veloute with glazed winter veg, and pud of blueberry mousse with kiwi compote. Blistering wine list. (from toptable.co.uk)