Westminster institution, Shepherd’s, a favourite haunt of politicos, lobbyists and journalists has returned to London’s dining scene after two years. When the restaurant closed in 2013 it was dubbed “the end of an era” by The Spectator and certainly that part of town remains curiously bereft of mid-priced alternatives.

So news that Shepherd’s has reopened (under the stewardship of Tory lobbyist Lionel Zetter) will surely be music to many ears. Even better, the restaurant has been revived with an Atherton-trained chef at the helm. Paul Crosdale, fresh from the “to-die-for” Berners Tavern, is joined by Owen Williams, formerly of Michael Wignall’s “tour de force” hotel dining room The Latymer.

The famous Shepherd’s Bar is overseen by a graduate of both The Ivy and Brasserie Zedel, while Philippe Lhermitte, previously of Bruno Loubet’s “must-try” Grain Store in King’s Cross, has joined as general manager. The colour scheme at the 60-cover restaurant is very much in keeping with its heritage as a haunt for politicos with green leather banquettes and British racing green wallpaper – how very House of Commons!

On the decidedly British menu: English beetroot salad, roast Scottish scallops, suckling pork belly, Chateaubriand and (of course) shepherd’s pie.