The high-tech interior of this French and Japanese fusion restaurant in Moscow, with its cream hues and exposed brick, mixed with wooden floors and muslin curtains, creates a very elegant and sophisticated yet informal environment, and is popular with the refined 30-something elitny crowd in town.

Another of Arkady Novikov’s creations, it is frequented by celebrities and business clients; here you can either choose to sit and be seen on the raised section, with fantastic views across to the Christ the Redeemer Cathedral, or in the more private setting of the downstairs lounge.

Despite their close proximity, Vanil manages to maintain a level of intimacy at each table through the use of drapes. The chilled lounge music, played at an unobtrusive volume, creates an atmosphere that is suitable for a business lunch or a romantic dinner.

The menu is well presented, varied and definitely inventive, with delights such as guinea-fowl risotto, although the service can be a little slow.