Notting Hill Eatery The Lonsdale: Discreet Yet Distinct

Wandering past the stunning million-pound-plus townhouses of Notting Hill, our expectations for an eatery in this luxurious neighborhood are high.

Nestled away in a maze of streets we stumble upon the Lonsdale. There are no flashing lights, no huge signs; it's inconspicuous. With all the qualities of a members' club, this restaurant and bar venue is intimate. From the outside it's impossible to tell what's on the inside, so it's incredibly discreet.

My friend and I are welcomed inside by friendly staff, and our coats are taken before we have a pre-dinner drink. The cosy area is both chic and traditional–red leather stools line the bar while stylish, modern chandeliers hang from the ceiling creating a flattering glow. It's busy, with chatter and laughter forming a bubbly atmosphere.

We look through the cocktail menu...and continue to look–it's extensive to say the least! The mixologist (one of an award-winning team) comes to our rescue, crafting drinks to suit our individual tastes.

Here, you won't just find your Cosmopolitans and caipirinhas, so instead be more adventurous and opt for something different, such as the more unique 16th century Drake's Mojito. It's one of the few authentic venues in London you'll be able to. Drinks in hand, we wander into the dining area, where the scarlet theme is continued, with thick sofa-like chairs surrounding booths in a cavernous-feeling room.

The menu is overflowing with a range of tempting options; from Cornish crab tian with a Bloody Mary dressing to vegetable and bean broth with herb dumplings. My tomato and goat cheese galette with rocket and pesto starter is delicious with it's fresh, creamy cheese and light, flaky pastry. Brian tucks into his seared scallops and chorizo with butternut squash puree, giving it a big thumbs up.

Suitably impressed, we relax with a glass or two of a delicious Argentinian Malbec, while our smiley waitress makes helpful recommendations for our mains. We don't have long to wait. Brian's filet steak arrives promptly and it's cooked perfectly; the tender meat is outstanding. The venue uses Allens of Mayfair, Britain's oldest butcher, for its supply. My risotto primavera with Japanese pea shoots and parmesan is also delectable. The texture of each creamy mouthful is balanced and complemented perfectly by the tangy cheese.

Suitably satiated, we left just enough room for dessert–and I refuse to leave until we've tried one of my favorites: a knickerbocker glory. Thankfully, it doesn't disappoint. The tall glass of cream, ice cream and fruit was extremely moreish and was empty far too quickly!

We make our way back through the London streets – I've never had a reason to come to this area before but now there's every reason to return.

The Lonsdale
48 Lonsdale Road, Notting Hill
London, W11 2DE
+44.207.727.4080
www.thelonsdale.co.uk

Related Topics: News, notting hill, london, the lonsdale