Time Warp

Based on Lonsdale Road, Notting Hill, this funky and fresh bar encompassing 3 floors with an exclusive private bar has scooped a host of awards over the past 5 years.

The unassuming exterior with just a smattering of residential housing dotted around is deceptive. Step inside and you are greeted by an ultra modern, dark palette of colours and futuristic design including brushed chromes and spacey features. The bar area with its tall stylish chairs leads to a cool dining area with red snakeskin type couches, low ceilings, fresh flowers, leather banquettes and an eye catching circular alcove in the ceiling.

Sinking into the couches we looked on at the Notting Hill set and the few couples that were popping in for a taste of the striking drinks list that that the Lonsdale is so famous for. The feel is very much Sex and The City as groups of girls gather round tables despite it being Wednesday to gossip and paint the town all sorts of colours.

The business of ordering is quite a task simply because the list is so exhausting but we went for a very refreshing Black Bison with lime, Chambord and Zubrowka vodka, all shaken up with fresh blackberries. A tangy Elderflower fizz, a blend of elderflower cordial, champagne and lemon juice also went down a treat.

Feeling zesty and refreshed we headed for the food menu. One of my only quibbles was the lack of choice of dishes on offer to diners. Dishes include marinated crayfish tails; pan fried salmon and a pea and asparagus risotto and the set menu throws up 2 courses for £19.50 with 3 at £24 that isn’t too costly for Notting Hill.

We opted for the smaller grazing dishes to go with our cocktails. The first was beautifully presented yellow fin tuna. The perfectly pink fish was complimented by the soy and sesame flavours from a bed of Oriental vegetables and pickles. A foie gras and chicken parfait came with a bowl of curly brioche which was as modern as the interior. Loin of fallow venison was particularly lean and although the bitter chocolate jus was not futuristic in cuisine it complimented the delicate softness of the meat with its richness and hints of rosemary.