While London is a melting pot of cuisines, with restaurants flying the flag for various countries all around the globe, there is still a distinct lack of Portuguese dining opportunities in the capital.
Luckily, Volta do Mar is here to rectify that. This smart independent joint is nestled in a coveted spot just off Draycott Avenue and offers ample private dining opportunities, with groups able to enjoy feasting menus of Portuguese classics, such as Iberico pork vindalho and piri piri chicken. At Volta do Mar, there is a dedicated private dining room able to cater for up to 12 guests - perfect for more intimate occasions such as team meetings, engagement dinners and sophisticated birthday celebrations. Do note that the restaurant can also cater to larger private events of up to 40.
The self-contained private dining room is accessible via the kitchen, and designed to offer a chef's table experience for guests, allowing them to get up close and personal to the action of the kitchen. It also comes equipped with audio visual technology, should you wish to host a presentation or entertainment.
There are a range of group feasting menus to choose from, available for £50, £60 or £70 per person. Everything is designed to be shared, and courses range from snacks to starters, mains, sides and desserts. Kick off with the likes of olives and sourdough, before enjoying signature dishes like piri marinated chicken wings, or gazpacho with crab. Mains might include a fish and prawn stew, or Bafassa pork with turmeric potatoes and savoy cabbage. Sides are to be shared by the table and include Mozambique green rice, piri piri chips and lettuce salad. For dessert, think caramel mousse with toasted hazelnuts.
To drink, there's an impressive Portuguese wine list, which has been curated with great care and features a number of small, low-intervention producers.