It’s the second time The Barbary concept has expanded
Founders Zoë and Layo Paskin (who also have The Palomar, The Blue Posts and Evelyn’s Table) have taken their time growing The Barbary – the first, counter only, restaurant opened in Neal’s Yard in 2016; the pair took on the space next door, turning it into a wine bar and restaurant in 2021; and now, another three years later, The Barbary Notting Hill has opened its doors. And it’s a significant expansion – the Grade-II listed building, a fantastic corner spot, has room for 75.
The counter seating is still there, wrapped around the open kitchen and along one of the windows, but is joined by tables and booth seating and a separate cocktail bar made from volcanic stone. The whole place just oozes style; the combo of willow ceiling panels, dark wood furniture, midnight blue and burnt orange upholstery, and marble give it a very rich, very 70s lounge vibe.
Eat This
Like the original, the menu here is also inspired by the North African, Mediterranean and Middle Eastern coasts and there’s plenty of cooking over fire. And with spicing, seasoning and charring galore, it really is all killer, no filler. Even the vegetable side dishes have been given real attention when it comes to flavour and texture – broccoli is blackened and served with miso tahini and rice is infused with saffron and baked until crispy.
The offering does change seasonally but a flatbread (we loved the za’atar, olive oil and ricotta salata one) is practically obligatory, as are some gorgeous things to dip it in, like the brûleed kapia pepper and feta dip, and the spiced labneh that comes underneath little crispy violet artichokes.
Other standouts are the Cornish squid, served with charred onions and a rich tomato sauce; the fish tartare dotted with crunchy green beans from Mora Farm, labneh and mint; and the crispy-skinned chermoula seabass. And if you’re a sucker for a roasted cauliflower, the version they do here is excellent.
If you can save enough room for The Barbary’s signature hashcake, well done. If you can’t, there are some interesting ice cream options – the cremino one is basically Ferrero Rocher flavour – if you just want a tiny taste of something sweet.
Drink This
A bigger space also means an expanded drinks offering, including a 250-strong wine list featuring a mix of classic and emerging regions, including some rare bottles of Krug and some serious names from Burgundy and Bordeaux for those who really want to splash the cash. If you’re not one to drop three figures plus on a bottle, there’s still a lot to enjoy in the by-the-glass selection, like the Chardonnay from Domaine Patrick Miolane. Cocktail fans are covered too with a short but interesting selection – don’t miss the Smoked Pineapple Paloma.
Why Go
Truly the menu alone makes The Barbary Notting Hill worth a visit but it’s also got the look and ambience to match. A fantastic addition to the neighbourhood.
Key Information
Address | 112 Westbourne Grove, London W2 5RU
For more information | thebarbary.co.uk