Little Black Book

If you find yourself in Notting Hill for the day or the evening and are at a loss of where to go or what to do, here’s my personal highlights of the area – some little gems whether you fancy a bit of shopping, stopping off for brunch or a pint in the pub or you’re heading for the cinema and then dinner. There’s loads to do and see in this gorgeous little pocket of London, trust me…

*This page will be updated as and when I find new places to tell you about*

RESTAURANTS 

Pizza East Portobello – 310 Portobello Road.

Many a late night pizza and carafe of prosecco has been shared with mates in this brilliant buzzing restaurant at the top of Portobello. Does a mean hangover brunch too. 

The Oak – 137 Westbourne Park Road.

Downstairs, the cosy restaurant serves a variety of food but you must try the Wood Fired pizzas drizzled with truffle oil. Upstairs, the pièce de résistance, the fabulous bar is the perfect area to pre-drink before dinner or soak up the atmosphere of beautiful people whilst guzzling one of their lethal-strength cocktails. 

Electric Diner – 191 Portobello Road.

French-flavoured American diner style restaurant, perfect for a date or catching up with friends over drinks in the evening but does a mean breakfast / brunch at weekends too. Somewhat of a Portobello institution. 

Goode and Wright – 271 Portobello Road.

I have such a crush on this perfect 1920’s vintage-style Parisian bistro. The local French waiters make you feel at home while serving you fantastic wine and bistro-style cuisine. Perfect for a date or a weekend brunch with friends. 

Crazy Homies – 125 Westbourne Park Road.

Fan of Mexican food? Look no further thank this tiny, loud and utterly fabulous place. Genuinely still the best nachos i’ve ever tasted – it gets VERY busy so come with time to spare as usually you need to wait for a seat. No matter though, you can tuck into one of the amazing tequila cocktails while you wait 😉

Osteria Basilico – 29 Kensington Park Road.

My fav local Italian joint. Gorgeous food and atmosphere. 

PUBS / BARS 

The Windsor Castle – 114 Campden Hill Road.

Might just be my favourite pub in the world. So old it still has 4 foot high doorways, it’s the perfect cosy spot in winter for a Sunday roast and mulled cider – come summer their large terrace is filled with Pimms-swigging locals. 

  The Westbourne pub – 101 Westbourne Park Villas

Real local and nice outside space, head there for a Thursday or Friday night drink for a brilliant atmosphere. Opposite The Cow, also a great pub and a fave of the Beckhams and Kate Moss.

West Thirty Six – 36 Golborne Road

I’ve done a separate post on this place if you want further details, but a great option for a catch up with friends over some drinks and good food. Gorgeous setting up in North Notting Hill.

Polpo – 126 Notting Hill Gate

Located on the actual Gate itself, a literal stones throw from Notting Hill station, this place serves delicious plates of tapas food alongside the best Elderflower martini I’ve tasted in London. You can go for either just drinks or for dinner too. 

Trailer Happiness – 177 Portobello Road.

Cool little lounge bar / Tiki den. Great cocktails and good choice for a birthday party with friends. 

Portobello Star – 171 Portobello Road.

Must-visit bar for any gin lovers like myself – home to the famous Portobello Road gin, it’s a great pub/bar for after work drinks and also features masterclasses upstairs in the Institute (see what they did there).

SHOPPING 

 Diptyque – 195 Westbourne Grove.

The best candles around; perfect if you’re looking for a present for someone or just to treat yourself!

Westbourne Grove is home to the likes of Maje, The Kooples, Smythson, Zadig & Voltaire, Joseph and Melissa Obadash. Stroll along and stop off for a coffee/lunch break at 202.

Whiteleys – Queensway, London.

This art deco shopping centre is home is my go-to for great high-street brands such as Zara, H&M, M&S and Kurt Gieger.

Brissi on 196 Westbourne Grove / Graham and Green in W11 and the new flagship on 36 Dorchester Road

A must visit if you’re into interiors – both gorgeous shops with a stunning selection of household goods, furniture and all other homeware bits and bobs.  

SOMETHING A BIT DIFFERENT…

 Sophie Gass – 4 Ladroke Grove

A gorgeous concept fashion, flowers and nail boutique – my go-to when i’m in dire need of a french manicure. The girls who work there are all lovely too and you can also pick up some jewellery and other accessories from local designers. 

Wild at Heart – Westbourne Grove (opposite Joseph)

You’ll probably recognise this little flower stall having likely seen it pop up in your Instagram feed, as it’s one of the most photographed spots in the area. But for a reason! Always stocking the most beautiful of flowers, stop off here for a bunch of fresh blooms to take home to brighten up your week. 

Samantha Cusick London – 284 Westbourne Park Road

This new hair salon on the block is AMAZING. Sam and her team are wonderfully friendly, her dog will greet you for your appointment and she’ll ply you with complimentary cocktails (with glitter in them no less) and popcorn while you get your hair ‘did. She’s popular with a few celebs now though so make sure you book up an appt in advance.