Billed as a leafy retreat for Notting Hill, the reality is slightly different. But don’t let the location put you off, this is drinking at its very finest.

The Venue
Crescent House’s location is an odd one. Lying on the fringe of affluent Notting Hill, this sophisticated bar and restaurant seems to be on the edge of an area that doesn’t quite match its splendour. Imperfect housing and satellite dishes line the road from Westbourne Park tube station but prosperity is only a street or two away.

There’s no doubt though, that the Crescent House’s target customers will keep the bar busy, and regardless of its immediate surroundings, it’s certainly got the quality to become a destination bar for discerning drinkers. Classical decor ensures things are kept stylish, with lavish leather seating and sofas, ornate furniture and full length mirrors complementing polished floorboards and olive green walls. Original open fires add to the air of relaxed sophistication are sure to be a big hit in the winter. Trivia buffs will be glad to know that the Crescent House was used as a location in the famous alcohol-friendly film Withnail & I.

The Atmosphere
There’s an elegant feel to the downstairs bar that matches the sophistication of the swanky upstairs restaurant. Even with the immaculate service and setting, there’s a relaxed feel to proceedings, without the stuffiness you might expect from similar venues. This extends to the decked garden area that looks like a perfect spot to while away a summer’s afternoon - they’ve even got separate outside bar complete with draught beers. As you might expect from a place with designs on the Notting Hill lot, Crescent House attracts a well off bunch, but it’s not a place for braying hoorays. Its semi-hidden location makes it a bit of a hidden gem, adding an air of mystique that’s sure to set the trendy tongues of W11 wagging.

The Food
The bar menu isn’t extensive, but it changes regularly and there are decent options available made from fresh, well sourced, quality ingredients. The popular suckling pig sandwich is a delight, with delicious pork sitting between ciabatta with streaky bacon, rocket, and caramelised apple. The highlight however, is the exquisite baked mackerel. Superbly cooked fish is accompanied by spinach, shallots, parsley and tangy capers, all sitting on a bed of creamy mash. Both dishes showcase the talent in the kitchen, and neither break the ten pound mark. Desserts are almost as impressive but are currently limited to just two selections – a decadent chocolate truffle cake and an incredibly edible peach and pear tart.

The Drink
There’s an extensive selection of spirits behind the bar so fussy drinkers will be in their element. Skilled bar staff are adept at using them for a plethora of cocktails, including signature concoctions such as the Honeycomb Margarita and the Royal Collins. There’s a superb selection to sample but for those of you who like your drinks to be a little simpler, there’s plenty of classic choices. Continental lagers and Guinness are on draught, as well as good old Kentish Spitfire for the ale fans. The wine list is well thought out and the staff are more than happy to help you pick a suitable accompaniment to your meal. For an establishment like this, prices aren’t too steep either so you can guzzle away to your heart’s content.

The Last Word
Despite being situated in a location that some would deem less than ideal, Crescent House is a superb bar that’s well worth a visit.

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