LB Loves… Notting Hill

It’s fun, it’s full of energy, and its perfect for treats, catching up with friends, celebrating special occasions and relaxing as you shop. What’s not to like about Notting Hill? It’s our ‘go-to’ place, so here are some of the season’s favourites for your ‘to-do’ list.

1. JULIE’S

RESTAURANT & CHAMPAGNE BAR

A neighbourhood stalwart among restaurants, Julie’s has been attracting locals and international A-listers for more than 50 years. It’s had what it likes to call a ‘rebirth’ but retains its family sense of welcoming spirit and has a reputation for offering a late night party atmosphere, especially in its downstairs alcoves. Seasonal beautifully presented food day or night and do check out their delicious seasonal menus, which mean less stress and more time to party.

2. ERPINGHAM HOUSE

RESTAURANT

This restaurant serves dishes free from any animal products whatsoever, making their food suitable for vegans, vegetarians & a number of other allergens. Produce is locally & responsibly sourced and made fresh to order each day. They believe healthy food should also be delicious & sustainable, so you’ll find seasonal favourites bursting with flavour, that are kind to you & the planet!

3. CINQUECENTO

BEST PIZZA IN LONDON

Sometimes nothing but the best pizza will do, especially when you face the prospect of endless English meaty feasts over Christmas. Founders Emanuele and Melo came to London fresh from Naples with a shared dream of creating a truly authentic Neapolitan pizzeria. All ingredients are 100% Italian and they use a stone crushed flour – Ovvietà, which is far easier to digest with many healthier benefits. Their San Marzano tomato sauce hails from Campania grown exclusively in the volcanic soil.

4. ZĒPHYR

VERY NEW GREEK RESTAURANT

Named after the Greek god of the West wind – a soft gentle breezeZēphyr offers a casual dining affair inspired by Grecian culture and a late-night bar downstairs.

5. COCK & BOTTLE

A NOTTING HILL INSTITUTION

Tucked away in a pretty and quiet pocket of Notting Hill, opposite St Mary of the Angels Church, this pub is one of London’s most traditional and charming old pubs. The Head Chef has perfected a menu that balances all the traditional ‘pub’ dishes, but also loves going the extra mile for the upstairs dining room. The menu changes weekly to reflect the seasons. The wine list boasts an excellent blend of Old and New World wines with plenty of local craft beer as well as the better known old breweries for your perfect pint at Christmas.

6. ALICE’S

SHOP FEATURED IN NOTTING HILL (MOVIE)

When you have run out of present ideas for the person who has everything, head on down to Portobello Road and lose yourself in Alice’s – an emporium offering an eclectic assortment of antique & vintage furnishings, china, curios & toys. Established way back in 1887, Alice’s is truly an iconic quaint shop that locals could simply not imagine being there. At this time of year, it provides inspiration and ideas for a gift out of the ordinary, guaranteed not to be copied at Christmas.

7. WALMER CASTLE

RESTAURANT & BAR

Looking to reconnect with your Scottish heritage, or enjoy some of the finest malts. The Walmer Castle Notting Hill has reopened as a restaurant, cocktail and whisky bar. In collaboration with The Craigellachie Hotel, The Walmer brings the essence of Speyside to London. The food menu is a genuine celebration of the provenance of Speyside, the finest Scottish produce in the world due to the region’s diverse landscape and agriculture.

8. AIMÉ

INDEPENDENT CLOTHING STORE

When you shop here, as well as an irresistible wardrobe and the perfect party outfit, you might discover a new artist from France and a signature Vanda playlist. Founded back in 1999 by two French-Vietnamese sisters, Aimé finds and curates clothes that work for women’s lives – luxurious, functional, feminine and always with a whiff of Parisian style. Brands range from Isabel Marant, Michel Vivien and Officine Generale as well as creating their own in house brand. Happy Christmas shopping!

9. BODYISM

WELLNESS CLUB

Get your mind, body and soul into shape and find your own personal wellness space at Bodyism in Westbourne Grove. You can join and have one-to-one or group classes that take an holistic approach – ideal for this busy time of year. The mood is light, the interiors bright and natural with purified air and wonderful pampering extras – ghd hairstyling equipment, organic and vegan Lemberger Stafsing hair products, and skincare and body treatments by Wildsmith Skin. Find the best version of you and feel great about 2023.