Portobello Road is renowned for its character, colour and energy, aided by an array of bustling market stalls , much-loved boozers and antique stores. The iconic strip is an institution loved by locals and tourists alike, and so for any newcomer intending to set up roots, stripes have to be earned first. Mandatories include charm, soul, compassion and definitely style. As one of the most culturally diverse pockets of London, international figures are always certainly welcomed, too. And so it was with great relief to see zēphyr open its doors on this Portobello Road stretch. As part of the Pachamama restaurant group, zēphyr is a Grecian delight named after the Greek god of the west wind and translated as ‘a soft gentle breeze’. With an effortless dining vibe that is casual yet hip with a buzz already circulating its air, zēphyr is going to be a hit.
From the outset, zēphyr catches your attention. With a minimalist, all-black exterior reminiscent of nineties simplicity, it harks back to one of Notting Hill’s greatest eras. Sexy, sultry and with lots of surprises, it’s hard to refuse. Inside, muted neutrals and earthy palettes rule the roost to ensure a humble tone to the space. The parquet wood flooring adds character whilst shades of green adorned by the bistro chairs, window curtains and indoor plants pay homage to the restaurant’s Greek heritage.
The feeling is further intimate and eclectic by soft lighting and unique collectibles dotted around the space. The refined bohemian decor makes you feel immediately at home. The pairing of the green-stemmed wine glasses and ornate hand-blown glass candlesticks and objects is sublime. It’s only the white tablecloths that serve to remind you you’re actually in a restaurant rather than your illustrious great aunt’s private dining room.
The food is a true love affair with Greece. Taking you on a journey by land, sea, soil, raw, and spreads (as the menu suggests), expect Greek classics including Greek salad, tantalizing seafood, and smoked aubergine. With the kitchen led by John Skotidas, a Greek South American executive chef that made his name at the nearby Greek institution Mazi in Hillgate Village, you know this restaurant is a good thing. An ideal menu for sharing, this is a space for celebration and definitely for food lovers.
Alluring diners even further, the basement level offers a 32-seat cocktail bar that is arrestingly seductive. The Naked & Famous Agave Bar presents voluptuous shapes and curves paired with a monochromatic colour palette to provide quite the setting for a late-night refreshment. We’ve transported yet again to an achingly cool era bygone that has ensured chic design forefront but without any frills or pretence. A feat often hard to accomplish, zēphyr has secured its place on our Notting Hill dining list early on. A sure-fire star, welcome to the neighbourhood.
zēphyr, 100 Portobello Road, London W11
zephyr.london
