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 that form the social heart of the area. 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.

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, reinterpreted through a modern gastronomic lens. 

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. 

Caia, Golborne Road

An alluring cocktail of wine, music and flame-cooked food, Caia is a firecracker of a restaurant with an upscale bohemian vibe. Dramatic, moodily-lit interiors span two floors. For a more private dining experience, the wine room sits away from the thrum of the restaurant, surrounded by their considered vino collection. Music comes in the form of forgotten classics played on vinyl while the cuisine is a celebration of fat, fire and texture. Comprised of sharing plates, the current menu spans beef tartare, grilled artichoke and Iberico ribs. In the evening, expect live DJs.

Casa Cruz, Clarendon Road

Casa Cruz is Notting Hill’s answer to the ultimate dining experience, part of tycoon Juan Santa Cruz’s international troupe of restaurants. Matching the front door, a backlit copper bar captures attention for a pre-meal cocktail. Jazz-funk soundtracks the space, while glitzy mirrored decor feels sumptuous. There’s even a signature scent — vetiver and rose — to complement the flavourful menu. As for the food, smoky Argentinian steak takes centre stage, alongside seafood and pasta. In warmer months, there’s also a leafy terrace to enjoy. 

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. 

Belvedere, Abbotsbury Road

There’s a real sense of history to Belvedere. In the 1600s, the restaurant was a coach house. Come the 19th century, it was transformed into a ballroom. Taking cues from Tuscan architecture, the space was relaunched in 2022 with a two-storey dining room colonnade that governs over Holland Park. Antonio Favuzzi reigns as head chef, having had an illustrious career at The Wolseley, Mortimer House and L’Anima. Working with small village suppliers, the menu is a celebration of Italian produce — with a particular focus on seafood. 

Frame, Hereford Road

A taste of Spain in Notting Hill, Frame is a hidden gem proffering an exciting range of tapas is on offer, complemented further by the friendly service and cool ambience. The interiors have been carefully crafted, featuring backlit sash window frames and distressed walls in jewel tones. Plus, a delightful indoor garden with exposed brickwork enjoys an open roof to welcome in the sunshine.

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. 

Los Mochis, Farmer Street

From Tulum to Tokyo, Los Mochis are known for their Pan-Pacific genius. The menu is colourful and creative, combining passion-fuelled Mexican dishes with the precision and elegance of Japanese cuisine. From breakfast to dinner, enjoy quesadillas and tacos alongside sashimi and sushi rolls — the setting is backdropped by vibrant artwork from Mexican muralist Jorge Tellaeche. For something even more special, their exclusive six-seater Omakase experience features 15 courses crafted by executive chef, Leonard Tanyag. 

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. 

Ria’s, All Saints Road

A relative newcomer to Notting Hill’s collective of restaurants, Ria’s opened in the summer of 2023 and epitomises the neighbourhood’s effortlessly cool character. Imagined by first-time restaurateurs Dave and Ria Morgan, it’s a coffee shop by day and Detroit-style pizza joint and natural wine bar at night. It had overnight success, thanks to their homely atmosphere and lovingly made food. You can even mix and match your slices to appreciate the innovative selection of toppings. 

Hereford Road, Hereford Road

A converted butcher’s shop, Hereford Road does traditional British cuisine par excellence. Head chef Tom Pemberton, who previously worked at the legendary St John Bread and Wine, has mastered the art of unpretentious yet outstanding food. Roasted joints and fresh seafood are paired with seasonal vegetables. With a daily-changing menu, there’s reason to return time and time again. The red leather booths and open kitchen have an inviting feel. In summer, the front window is opened to create an open-air feel.