Daphne’s is a local restaurant with an international following, popular with Chelsea residents but a destination for visitors from around the world. Opened in 1964 by theatre agent Daphne Rye, who discovered Richard Burton and developed the careers of Kenneth More and Honor Blackman, Daphne’s quickly became one of London’s most fashionable haunts and has scarcely faltered since. The appeal lies not only in its carefully-sourced seasonal Italian country cooking, but also in its natural warmth and effortless charm. This chic, understated restaurant is a delight all year round: in summer, the conservatory roof opens to create an alfresco feel; in winter, a blazing fire in the open brick hearth turns it into an intimate retreat.