London’s been calling my name. Literally- I can hear it!
Although I wish I could just pack up and jet off this weekend, unfortunately it’s just not possible.
London has forever held a little piece of my heart, and I have visited the gorgeous city four times now – First when I was 11 years old with my parents. Again when my best friend Emma and I travelled there to begin our big holiday (however we were only there for 4 days). Then, I travelled back there again after Emma’s accident in Switzerland and lived in Notting Hill for two weeks. And my last trip over there was two years ago with my Mum for a mother/daughter holiday.
Notting Hill, situated in the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea, captures everyone with its unique charm.
It has a very chic look and feel, and has blossomed into one of London’s most desirable (and most expensive) areas.
Head to Notting Hill for exquisite food, unbelievable fashion (it’s where Sass and Bide was born), and even some serious celeb spotting!
WHERE TO EAT
– Granger & Co. Opened by Australian Chef Bill Granger, this is seriously one restaurant in Notting Hill that you MUST visit. This sleek establishment is perfect for breakfast, lunch or dinner and is uber classy. I recommend going for a weekend brunch, however make sure that you get there super early as the lines can get ridiculous. If you’re an Aussie and feeling a little homesick- this is the place to go.
Details: 175 Westbourne Grove, Notting Hill.
– Electric Diner. This incredibly attractive restaurant/diner is adjacent to one of the oldest cinemas in London and has the perfect bar setting. Check this place out after you’ve seen a movie next door, as this diner is all about unfussy combinations mixed with a booth and bar setting.
Details: 191 Portobello Road, Notting Hill.
– Ottolenghi. This is the perfect place for those that are on the go, but want a quick takeaway lunch or dessert. As soon as you step foot in this cute store, you’ll be blown away by all of its beautiful (and Instagram worthy) dishes. Think luxurious salads and decadent pastries. I was visiting this store every day without fail!
Details: 63 Ledbury Road, Notting Hill.
– 202 London. This establishment brings fashion, retail and modern eating together with it’s part clothing part, food store. Sitting in the centre of West London’s most stylish shopping district, Westbourne Grove, 202 London serves a blend of world food, modern bistro essentials and diner classics.
Details: 202 Westbourne Grove, Notting Hill.
WHERE TO DRINK
– Beach Blanket Babylon. Oh.My.God! These were literally the first words that came out of my mouth when I entered this bar/resturant. BBB provides an experience not just out of the ordinary, but extraordinary. You have to see it for yourself- words cannot do it justice! Head here for drinks and check out their extensive wine and cocktail menu. A few scenes from Made in Chelsea have also been filmed here!
Details: 45 Ledbury Road, Notting Hill.
– The Ladbroke Arms. If you’re looking for a bar to head to on the weekend, then definitely go to The Ladbroke Arms. This charming pub is set in an incredibly beautiful residential area. There is a unique quality to this pub, that will make you want to return again and again!
Details: 54 Ladbroke Grove, Notting Hill.
– Gate Notting Hill. Looking for an underground bar? Then look no further than Gate Notting Hill! This part restaurant, part bar is perfect for those wanting to immerse themselves amongst a cosmopolitan crowd. There is also a very very extensive cocktail selection!
Details: 87 Notting Hill Gate, Notting Hill.
– The Prince Bonaparte. One of my favourite places for a drink, The Prine Bonaparte has a beautiful country style setting with extreme elegance. There is an open fire and extensive wine list- what more could you ask for? A perfect place for a Sunday afternoon.
Details: 80 Chepstow Rd, London.
WHERE TO SHOP
– Portobello Road Markets. One cannot visit Notting Hill and not head to the Portobello Road MarketS! Held every Saturday, this market is my absolute favourite. From fresh produce, to fashion, to antiques- it has everything! Definitely dedicate at least half a day to exploring these markets, I promise you won’t regret it. I recommend starting at the Notting Hill Gate tube station, and explore your way down the street.
– Joseph. This store is to die for! If you’re a true fashionista, then you’ll be heading to this store on more than one occasion. Under the creative direction of Louise Trotter, Joseph presents a high contemporary ready-to-wear collection with a strong core of luxury essentials. Head to this store for structured styles and classic cuts.
Details: 236 Westbourne Grove, Notting Hill.
– Matches. Now most of you Australian guys and gals would of on at least one occasion, visited the Matches online store, but I bet most of you didn’t know that Matches has a physical store in Notting Hill? WOW does this store have it all: Kenzo, Isabel Marant, Celine- you name it, they have it!
Details: 60 – 64 Ledbury Road, Notting Hill.
– Aime. This is the store where I bought my Isabel Marant Bobby Sneakers from, and I’m so glad I did! The staff at Aime are super sweet, and the store is equally decadent with a French chic twist. This French multi-brand store stocks mainly Parisian labels.
Details: 34 Ledbury Road, Notting Hill.
So there you have it- my top places to Eat Drink & Shop in Notting Hill. Have you visited recently?
