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Where to go
“Charles Jenks’ The Cosmic House.
19 Lansdowne Walk, London W11 3AH
Architect Charles Jenks’ house museum was built between 1978 and 1983 in collaboration with his wife Maggie Jenks and architect Terry Farrell. The four-story Victorian mansion is a true manifesto of Jenks’ postmodernist ideas, who believed that architecture should be infused with a narrative and carry a set of meanings and symbols. Each element of the house is an allusion to the human body, the cosmos, science or art (for example, the spiral staircase, according to the master’s idea, symbolizes the abstract “solar year”, and its steps – the weeks of the year). Jenks wanted the house to be preserved and remain a place to discuss culture and cosmology, science and design, and his wishes were realized. In 2018, the mansion was listed with the highest level of protection (Grade I) in recognition of its status as one of the most important cultural and architectural centers, and a host of educational and discussion events are constantly taking place on the grounds of the house.
Electric Cinema
191 Portobello Rd, London W11 2ED
The old London cinema, which has survived two world wars, a bombing and a major fire, remains one of the historic symbols of Portobello Road and one of the most romantic spots in Notting Hill. Unlike most movie theaters, here visitors are treated to a luxurious lounge – with comfortable chairs, footstools, lush cashmere blankets and vintage details from popcorn tars to elegant lampshades on tables near the couches (and that’s enough to make you want to come back here). On the plus side, a decent movie program, top-notch staff service, good selection of cocktails and a variety of snacks on the bar.
The Globe Nightclub
103 Talbot Rd, London W11 2AT
One of London’s oldest nightclubs, opened in 1960, is nothing less than a legendary destination for nightlife enthusiasts in the British capital. Jimi Hendrix, The Rolling Stones, Van Morrison, The Clash, Bob Marley and other celebrities have performed and vacationed here. Over the years, the club has not lost its relevance – The Globe continues to regularly gather the most famous DJs and musicians from all over the world, and its long history only adds a special “vintage zest”.
What to buy
Portobello Market on Portobello Road.
London W11 1LJ
Portobello Market is one of London’s (and arguably the world’s) most iconic and famous markets. Until the 1940s, Portobello Road was similar to many other London markets and mainly offered a selection of essentials and food items that can still be found there today. Over time, however, the Market has grown so much that it now has “just about everything” and more, including antique treasures that are best hunted for in the morning. If you want to be in an energetic crowd, observe the locals and store without knowing exactly what you’re looking for, this is definitely the place to go.
Alice’s Antiques.
86 Portobello Rd, London W11 2QD
Alice’s Shop is a charming place to find vintage and rare curiosities. What customers might stumble upon among the store’s eclectic assortment always remains a surprise. A vintage diving helmet, a giant plastic rhinoceros, dove jewelry, china, vintage celebrity photos or decorative royal crests all evoke only one desire – to “search and don’t stop”. Alice’s Antiques can be easily spotted by the bright red exterior that greets guests from the street.
Lovers Lane Vintage Boutique
77 Portobello Road, W11 2QB
Lovers Lane is an upscale vintage boutique specializing in rare designer clothing, bags, jewelry and accessories. If you’re a fan of unusual or rare pieces by Chanel, Gucci, Balmain, Prada, Dior, Dolce&Gabbana, YSL and other iconic brands, you’ll love this place. Here you can find everything from handbags to outerwear and easily disappear for a couple hours, dissolving into the couture atmosphere. The selection of items is reverently made by the store owners themselves, collaborating with private collectors and fashion archivists from around the world.
Where to eat
Japanese cuisine restaurant SUMI
157 Westbourne Grove, London W11 2RS
SUMI is the project of Michelin sushi chef Endo Kazatoshi and Mikhail Zelman. The restaurant, which was inspired by the atmosphere of New York’s East Village and the concept of Japanese perfectionism, has blended very seamlessly into the local culture. Its atmosphere combines elegance, casualness and “lamplight” and is equally suitable for a first date or a business lunch with colleagues. Sumi’s menu is exquisite, offering handmade sushi, sashimi and traditional Japanese dishes that (you can rest assured) will be made with the freshest and highest quality seasonal ingredients.
Secret Sandwich Shop.
103 Talbot Rd, London W11 2AT
If anyone is in search of the perfect sandwich, hint hint – it may be waiting for you at Secret Sandwich Shop. The colorful multicolored layers of ingredients layered on top of each other and including everything from meat, cheese and eggs to fresh vegetables and herbs look incredibly beautiful. The second and third pluses of this establishment are the portion size and freshness of the products used to make the shokupan bread sandwiches. The audience prize is the Hungry Dane, filled with pastrami, ham, salami, Swiss cheese and jalapenos.
Notting Hill Fish + Meat Shop fresh food store
287-289 Westbourne Grove, W11 2QA
More than just a grocery store, Fish + Meat is a favorite shopping destination for celebrity chefs and local foodies. Here you can find everything delicious and fresh for the table: farm meat and fish, a variety of selected fruits, vegetables and herbs, as well as a luxurious assortment of black and red caviar. Despite the fact that the store is not characterized by democratic prices, it is absolutely impossible to resist in front of the counters full of products and leave there without buying.
Farm Girl Brunch Cafe
59a Portobello Rd, W11 3DB
A short walk from Notting Hill Gate station, you’ll find Farm Girl Brunch Cafe, a farmhouse-style place decorated somewhere in Australia or on the coast of California and serving an array of original organic dishes. The conceptual menu is based on the idea of healthy eating, which is really well realized here. However, you can “meet” quite a few pastries and cakes on the shelves, some of which, in fairness, are gluten-free. The establishment also prides itself on its coffee and especially Rose Latte, which is based on “rose water”.
