Set in the heart of Portobello Road in Notting Hill, Gold creates a dining experience worthy of London’s most trendy street, which has continued to ooze both class and culture year after year. Once a hangout for the likes of the Sex Pistols and Motorhead, the pub has been transformed by entrepreneur Nick House into a stylish four-story restaurant and late-night bar. Much like his other ‘It Clubs’ of the Noughties, including Mahiki and Whisky Mist, Gold is enjoyed by the likes of Gweneth Paltrow, Ed Sheeran and many other local celebs. At the same time, it is a superb hangout spot for locals and tourists alike, as its stripped back, bare-brick floored interior allows flexibility for guests to make the experience as casual or ceremonious as they wish.

Before even walking through its doors, Gold’s exterior will catch the eye of diners and passers-by alike. It’s mural, designed by Portuguese street artist, Vhils, chips away at sleek white paint to reveal the rustic golden stone beneath. Above a mysterious all-black ground floor exterior, this creates a stylish and intriguing front to an even more stunning interior. Upon entering, guests are welcomed by a warm and bustling environment, and are offered the choice to sit either at the snazzy bar, relaxed first floor, or in my personal favourite, the garden room. Filled with exotic plants and light from its retractable glass roof, a touch of sun has the ability to make diners feel as though they have been teleported to L.A. for the day.

After taking in the impressive pared back interiors designed by talented locals Felix and Valene von Bechtolsheim, guests are presented with a multitude of options from Gold’s carefully crafted drinks and food menu. The wine list is also extensive, and follows Gold’s natural and simple ethos which celebrates producers that are true to their origin and vintage. Meanwhile, skilled bartenders work to blend exciting flavours in a range of exquisite cocktails, including the hemp Daiquiri and the Penasquito. These cocktails have been curated by Matt Whiley and Rich Woods to complement the diverse range of flavours exuded by the restaurant’s food menu. I enjoyed a perfectly garnished bloody Mary with pickled celery inside before being seated in the garden bar area, where I could watch the dishes I was about to choose being freshly prepared right in front of me.

Gold’s menu is filled with a small but exquisite range of weird and wonderful dishes, making it hard not to want to order a bit of everything. Headed by former River Café chef, Theo Hill, dishes are cooked to perfection in a wood oven or over an open flame, and are sure to be made of the finest, freshest ingredients available. The restaurant aims to take simple dishes and give them a twist of culinary magic, putting together unexpected but delightful flavours in their well thought–out menu.

One patron favourite is the chargrilled squid with creamy skordalia, topped with a dash of lemon and chilli. Also impressive is the roasted cauliflower with spiced yoghurt, cumin, and coriander, which most will find simple yet surprisingly delicious blend of flavours. For those looking for a lighter meal, Gold’s salads provide a wonderful and exotic twist to an otherwise dull plate. For example, the Radiccio di Castelfranco, tardive, grumolo and balsamic salad will be a new and interesting culinary experience for many.

A day wondering the streets of Notting Hill would not be complete without experiencing the fantastic dining opportunities that the famous area boasts of, and a visit to Gold is the perfect way to do so. Whether you’re looking for a cooling cocktail or a full course meal, Gold’s sun soaked, bohemian and bustling atmosphere is sure to give a long-lasting impression on those who dine there, and rest assured, your first visit will not be your last.