What Ealing really needs.....
What a fabulous space, such fantastic staff and amazing food.
Charlotte's W5 is exactly what Ealing and West London craved for. Entering into a bright and airy conservatory with a gorgeous marble topped bar; being greeted by warm and friendly staff, we were shown around and informed about the 'Third Place' concept.
The 'usual' does not apply here. The food is advertised in three different sizes: taster - small- large, perfect if you can't decide what you want, or if you want to try everything! You can come here for a 'traditional' meal and have a starter main and dessert if you wish but I guarantee if you approach this with an excitable open mind you will learn to love the options Charlotte's W5 gives you.
With food options ranging from cheese on toast to Burrata. We decided to go for a mixture of everything: Truffle and Artichoke Risotto, Rabbit Ragu, Truffle Arancini, Ham Hock. With my love of cheese, I went straight in for the Buratta, served with butternut squash, pine nuts and sage- creamy, cheesy goodness with a crunch from the pine nuts... a cheese lovers dream. The Octopus is thinly sliced and tender served with an egg yolk and crispy squid.
The drinks menu is extensive with something for everyone. A gin list as long as your arm and cocktail list to satisfy even the most curious of you - The ugly, slick and dapper a cocktail of Calvados, Balsamic vinegar, Port and black pepper . I know what you're thinking, 'It cant be done', well it can and it is being done amazingly well by Fredi the head bartender.
Where else would you be able to order 4 desserts and not feel ashamed that you could eat them all? Order as much dessert as you like, the small tester sizes are great for working out what you would come back and have next time ( in a much bigger size)
Anyone living in London, even if it's not the West, should get on a train/ bus/ bike and try this little wonder, hidden in Dickens Yard. Beer, sharing food, desserts and what I can see being a very popular outdoor terrace in the summer.... you can't go wrong.