It’s Friday night and Brasserie Blanc is buzzing with people enjoying a meal after a week at work, writes Hannah Worrall.

Stepping through the doors into the warm, stylish bar area my companion and I were warmly greeted by a waiter who led us to our cosy table by the window.

While we waited for our drinks – selected from the extensive yet reasonably priced wine menu – we had time to take in the revamped interior of the restaurant, which reopened after a refurbishment in March.

The décor is a tasteful blend of traditional French style with a modern twist, with flowers, ornaments and candles adorning every surface.

The open kitchen gives the whole place a bustling, informal feel, which is great for creating a relaxing atmosphere.

Our wine arrived accompanied by selection of dips: saffron garlic mayonnaise, olive tapenade and deliciously gloopy balsamic vinegar, for us to dip our bread in.

For starters I opted for the Scottish queen scallops which were complemented by a tangy tomato sauce and creamy potato mash. My companion chose gravlax – melt-in-the-mouth slivers of salmon beautifully presented with a spring vegetable salad.

The portion sizes were perfect, leaving us ready for our main courses: beef bourguignon and sirloin steak with crispy French fries.

My bourguignon was delicious: richly flavoured sauce with tender pieces of beef and fluffy potatoes, while the steak – cooked medium rare – was soft and juicy.

Next came dessert, my favourite course, and it did not disappoint. My companion picked the French classic crème brûlée, which boasted a wonderfully crackly topping and smooth vanilla custard underneath.

For me it was a generous slice of tart au citron, which packed a deliciously lemony punch.

During our meal we were well looked after by the friendly staff who were attentive and informative without being overbearing.

And it seemed we were not the only diners having a lovely time, as the whole restaurant was filled with the sound of people laughing and chatting over their meals.

“The whole idea of our menu is good food done well,“ says Fred Foey, assistant manager, who explained the refurbished restaurant has proved popular with customers.

He continues: “The idea was also to attract a different audience then what we were attracting before – a younger audience. It seemed a lot smaller before, the whole idea of a brasserie is to be relaxed and informal.“

We left having had a great evening out at Brasserie Blanc.

In spite of its location in a street packed with restaurants, Brasserie Blanc certainly makes its presence known for all the best reasons: delicious food, great atmosphere and attractive design.

Brasserie Blanc, Verulam Road, St Albans, Monday to Friday, 8am to 10pm, Saturday, 8am to 10.30pm, Sunday, 9am to 9pm. Details: 01727 890410, brasserieblanc.com