Notting Hill’s quaint tree-lined streets and characterful houses have made it popular with tourists and Londoners alike, but in more recent years, lots of visitors have made their way west to sneak a peek of their favourite celeb in the wild. One such place is Bertie Blossoms, a gastropub on Portobello Road serving tapas dishes and grower Champagnes, that just happens to be owned by Ed Sheeran. Sheeran has been known to appear at the pub from time to time, and this alone ensures that the pub is often busy.
Don’t expect this to be your classic old boozer - Bertie Blossoms is smartly decorated on the inside with a slick emerald colour palette washing over the wood panels and plush banquettes, and tasselled table lamps sitting on polished timber tabletops. A neat row of stools provide space for anyone who wants to perch at the bar, and there’s a cosy lounge area towards the back.
Meanwhile, the bar has everything from beers and ciders (bottled and draught) all the way through to signature and classic cocktails. This being Notting Hill, Bertie Blossoms prides itself on its Champagne and sparkling wine selection, going the extra mile to source Champagnes from independent growers and producers. If you get a little peckish while you drink, you can snack on a selection of bar bites such as padron peppers and olives.
The menu takes its cues from Spanish cuisine and comprises a selection of sharing plates, both small and large. Examples include Manchego croquettes with onion relish, charcuterie with cornichons and sourdough, and chorizo cooked in red wine with caramelised onions. Larger plates might include rigatoni a la vodka with parmesan, or rib eye steak with chimichurri and fries. And to finish there’s cheesecake with raspberry coulis and strawberries.