The neighbourhood at the forefront of London’s thriving food scene, these are our top picks for dining in Notting Hill.

Notting Hill has always been an enclave of soulful types; localists who gather at beloved restaurants. Leading gastronomes such as Clare Smyth of Core and Brett Graham of The Ledbury have long-established stamps on the map, while gastropubs like The Cow and The Pelican are well-known haunts.

Building on its community-oriented reputation, the last few years have seen a wave of openings and revamps of old favourites. Epicures once flocked to Mayfair and Soho, but now Notting Hill is receiving rapturous acclaim for its world-class chefs and star hospitality. You’ll be spoilt for choice.

The Ledbury, Ledbury Road

Michelin-starred The Ledbury is something of a Notting Hill landmark. Chef Brett Graham’s love letter to the British countryside, it showcases the best of the UK’s seasonal ingredients with confidence and invention. Revamped by Rose Murray, a refreshed dining space echoes the earthiness of the menu.

Core by Clare Smyth, Kensington Park Road

Opened in 2017 by Clare Smyth, the first and only female British chef to win three Michelin stars, Core is one of London’s most exclusive fine-dining spots. Every meal celebrates sustainably sourced British ingredients, from Isle of Harris scallops to Rhug Estate venison. Opt for one of the two 7-course menus; one curated from her classic dishes, while the other draws inspiration from the season. It’s worth booking far in advance to secure a spot here. 

The Barbary, Westbourne Grove

Continuing on from the success of their Neal’s Yard location, The Barbary’s 75-cover Notting Hill branch takes inspiration from the stretch of landscape from Southern Europe to Northern Africa. As you’d expect from a restaurant that’s headed by the Paskin siblings (founders of Evelyn’s Table, The Palomar and The End) style and sophistication characterise their menu and interior design.

Mazi, Hillgate Street

Epitomising the country’s culinary tradition of sharing, Mazi translates to “together” in Greek. “We always greet people on the street and welcome them into the restaurant,” says founder Christina Mouratoglou. “On the one hand, we serve the community and our local friends. On the other, we welcome tourists from all over who put a visit to Notting Hill at the top of their list.” With a menu comprised of sharing plates, this restaurant is tailor-made for catching up with loved ones. If you’re feeling inspired post-feast, Mazi’s cookbook is an ode to old-time Hellenic cuisine.

Dorian, Talbot Road

Newly crowned with a Michelin star, this “bistro for locals” slots in perfectly with W11’s new wave of simple yet stylish restaurants. Dorian was founded by Chris D’Sylva, owner of Notting Hill Fish + Meat Shop — a staple neighbourhood grocery store. The food is centred on seasonal British produce, crafted by head chef Max Coen who’s previously worked at Michelin-starred Ikoyi and Kitchen Table. The all-star hospitality team can guide you through the menu, from oysters and rosti to grilled fish and fragrant tarts. 

Gold, Portobello Road

Designed by Portuguese street artist Vhils, Gold’s eye-catching mural quite literally gazes across Portobello Road. There’s a year-round al fresco feel to the garden room with its retractable glass roof, terracotta floor tiles and dramatic foliage. Gather here with friends to sample their eclectic modern European menu. Leading the kitchen is River Cafe alumnus Theo Hill, who effortlessly guides diners from casual lunchtime offerings to indulgent evening celebrations — they’re open late into the night, any day of the week. 

The Oak, Westbourne Park Road

With the name and appearance of an old boozer, you’d be forgiven for thinking The Oak was a classic Notting Hill pub. Instead, the rustic candle-lit tables set the scene for Mediterranean small plates and pizzas — sourcing the dough from Italy to ensure an authentic taste and texture. A range of innovative cocktails can be enjoyed in their upstairs lounge, complete with plenty of seating for evenings with friends. 

Caractère, Westbourne Park Road

Playful modern cuisine doesn’t get better than at Caractère, a concept restaurant imagined by classically-trained chefs Diego Ferrari and Emily Roux (of the culinary family that created some of London’s most celebrated restaurants). Their menu is divided into six enticing sections: “curious”, “subtle”, “delicate”, “robust”, “strong” and “greedy” — let the waiters indulge your spirit of curiosity here. From starters to desserts, wine pairings enhance the already outstanding culinary offerings. 

Sumi, Westbourne Grove

Envisioned by sushi master Endo Kazutoshi, Sumi is the laid-back “little sister” to the eponymous Michelin-starred Endo at the Rotunda. On a leafy parade in Notting Hill, the restaurant welcomes with its minimalist aesthetic: wood panelling and warm lighting set an ambient tone for the exciting flavours to come. Get a seat at the bar and marvel at the chefs in the open kitchen. In warmer weather, enjoy your temaki rolls and sake on the streetside patio. 

Orasay, Kensington Park Road

The mastermind behind Orasay is chef Jackson Boxer, naming his restaurant after an island in the Outer Hebrides of Scotland where he holidayed as a child. Seafood is the linchpin of the menu. With fresh, British produce, expect oysters, langoustines, scallops, razor clams and crab. For those who prefer turf to surf, Orasay offers an expertly crafted range of land-based dishes too. There’s a cosy and relaxed feel with banquette seating and soft pendant lights, making it ideal for intimate gatherings. 

akub, Uxbridge Street

Named after a native edible thistle, akub is a celebration of Palestinian flavour and hospitality. Headed by chefs Fadi Kattan and Mathilde Papazian, their menu expertly balances the traditional with the experimental, divided between “ard” (land), “bahar” (sea) and “lahmeh” (meat). With interior design from Fare Inc, twisting olive trees create an organic backdrop. It’s best to come in a group to make the most of akub’s outstanding sharing dishes. Before dining, enjoy a unique cocktail crafted from historic Levantine ingredients.