Madison's

Its position among Pacific Place's designer shops is a fitting one for Madison's, a high- class restaurant offering top-notch fare. With its simple but stylish art deco design, popular bar and art-adorned walls, it creates a welcoming atmosphere in which to enjoy its beautifully presented and high quality dishes.

A complimentary raw salmon, parmesan and alfalfa appetiser was appreciated but wasn't a true taster of things to come. It would come at a price though. The lobster Caesar starter ($146) saw to that. Warm lobster claw meat surrounded by cos and romaine lettuce came with a delicate dressing, crispy parma ham and avocado, and herb melba toast, it was supremely fresh and subtle. The shrimp salad ($98) was equally impressive and generous. Six large lightly tandooried prawns surrounded a bed of mixed leaves dressed with a mild vinagrette.

Of the six mains enjoyed by a group on this particular evening, there was only one disappointment. The duck confit with fried potatoes and flageolet beans ($208) was, unfortunately, a little dry and flavourless. Impressively, upon seeing we hadn't enjoyed the dish, the manager was quick to inquire why and compensated us with a superb chocolate mousse cake with raspberry coulis on the house.

The other mains however were superb. Among the highlights was the char-grilled US rib-eye steak ($228) which was tender and perfectly cooked, served with garlic mash potato, French beans and an excellent mushroom sauce. The snapper fillet with parsley mash potato ($188) was perfect.

Dinner for two of us, including a 10 per cent service charge, a bottle of Villa Maria Sauvignon Blanc ($250) and an Irish coffee ($75) each came to $1,188.

Shop 340, Level Three, Pacific Place, 88 Queensway, Admiralty. Tel: 2523 4772. Open: noon-10.30pm (kitchen), 11am-midnight (bar). $$$$$