Beach Blanket Babylon could almost be described as confused as to what it’s trying to achieve – but what it’s actually doing is providing customers with an eclectic and fun night of intrigue.

The Venue
Located a short walk away from Notting Hill Gate, in one of the few areas of London that has aligned trendy with upmarket, the Beach Blanket Babylon epitomises everything that Notting Hill stands for. Style with substance is key with a slightly arrogant, high and mighty flavour that just seems to add to the fun of the place. Think The Devil Wears Prada and you’re close. The club shines out of Notting Hill like a beacon, and you can’t help but stare in wonder. Just be careful not to look agog for too long or they might feel you don’t belong and turn you away.

It’s a difficult venue to describe as it’s as if a designer has taken the opulence of several different eras and inspirations and just thrown them altogether. There’s the foliage of big leaved plants; the glistening lights and chandeliers; a wooden indoor bridge and staircase, complete with chains; red velvet chairs that are a step away from being thrones; cave-like areas where you feel the club has been actually carved into the walls; and even Greek statues and fireplaces – well, you get the idea. It could be enough to give you a headache but instead it fills you with a childish delight of wishing to explore and find out all this cavernous place has to offer. And that’s really the only way to describe it – cavernous. Interconnecting floors and rooms are spread all over the place and it’s easy to get lost looking for the toilets. But it’s almost worth getting lost on purpose, just to explore what’s going on.

The Atmosphere
The atmosphere at Beach Blanket Babylon is one of rich extravagance – and it couldn’t really be described as laid back. However, there is a definite friendly overtone as the staff do their best to attend to you and serve you quickly. This is especially true of the waiting staff. Very attentive and professional, you won’t be left wanting for anything. Even with some of their more demanding customers they don’t break a sweat. And this is an excellent place to people watch. Keep an ear to the ground and you’ll overhear snippets of conversation about everything from the latest celebrity sighting to the hottest fashion designers of the moment.

The Food
The food at Beach Blanket Bablyon is where this club really shines – matching that of many of London’s top restaurants with dish after dish of well thought out meals to tease the tastebuds.

Starters include dishes such as the Scottish smoked salmon with dill Crème Fraiche, Caviar and bellini pancakes, which is a fresh, light dish with just the right amount of kick provided by the salty overtones of the salmon and caviar. The foie gras and chicken terrine with apple and pear chutney also works well with an almost creamy pate that melts in the mouth and the chutney providing just the right amount of crunch. A real delight.

The choice of mains is just as impressive and is where the chef really shines. The lamb, in particular, deserves a mention. It actually melts in the mouth and with its warm, juicy tenderness, you’ll be blown away. Be sure to order a couple of side dishes, which are as good as the main courses themselves and not just a quick afterthought. The creamy mash is just creamy enough so as not to be overpowering, with a light, buttery aftertaste. The vegetables, though crunchy, aren’t hard and are always seasonal so as to accompany the choice of dishes. Truly a marvel.

You must remember, however, to leave room for the dessert. The white chocolate creme brulee is nothing short of incredible. If you have a sweet tooth, this is for you. The crunchy topping crackles nicely as you run your spoon through it to reach the creamy white chocolate middle. Made to a perfect consistency, you can’t fail to be blown away.

The Drink
This club is all about the cocktails. These may be expensive – you’re looking at more than £10 a pop – but they are exquisite. Whether you like fruity or creamy cocktails or those with a kick, there will be something for everyone. From the classics to their own concoctions, you’d be pained to stick to just one, even if it will drain your pocket.

A selection of wines are also offered with dinner. There’s a nice choice – just be careful to steer clear of the house wine, which is a little tart on the tongue. However, for a little bit extra, you can fork out for one of the other far superior but not overly pricey wines.

The Last Word
A decadent, sexy night out with some of the best food you’ll have ever tasted, Beach Blanket Babylon gets it so very right.

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