87 Notting Hill Gate,
Notting Hill,
London,
W11 3JZ
0872 148 3405
Note: Calls cost 10p per min plus network extras.
The ViewLondon Review
A restaurant, bar and club in trendy Notting Hill Gate, this place is a great little hideaway that would really impress if it was a bit more bold.
The Venue
Coming out of Notting Hill Gate station, you’ll find that everything is called 'The Gate', and coupled with the very discreet entrance, The Gate itself can be a little hard to spot. But this only adds to its appeal. Walking down the stairs into the main area, you’re faced with a stripped back yet chic setting – Notting Hill in a nutshell. Dim lighting with a blue neon light behind the bar shows that this place can do atmospheric, but the restaurant area enjoys better lighting so you can really enjoy all the food and cocktails as they arrive. Light wood flooring contrasts with the dark wood tables and chairs, and black sofas line the wall adding a bit of comfy class.
The Atmosphere
Although it advertises itself as a restaurant, bar and club, the venue doesn’t seem to fully commit to each aspect. This isn’t helped by the rather small space either, as the evolution from one area into another isn’t made particularly clear. A rather quiet start on Friday evening (even by 10pm) could possibly show just how secret this place is, and the music that accompanies dinner is pretty housey which doesn’t really work when the place is close to empty. However, later in the evening it does get busier, suiting the music and allowing The Gate to come alive a little more. The staff are very attentive, even if they can come across a little nervous as they serve a clientele predominantly comprising the trendy, upmarket crowd of Notting Hill.
The Food
The Gate offers a pretty impressive pan-Asian menu but again there seems a lack of commitment to make things truly authentic. The scallop dumpling (£5.50) is a steamed dim sum with a translucent casing, which is all very nice, but a prawn takes the place of the scallop, which is strange. The light bite platter (£14) is a good mix of finger foods and is just about enough for two as a starter, with some really good chicken and crab cakes being definitely worthy of note. The chicken pad Thai (£13.50) lacks authenticity thanks to a lack of tamarind and sugar, but it certainly boasts some delicious flavours nonetheless. The pork belly salad is definitely one to try, with thin slices of moist pork belly laying across tender green beans. It's all accompanied by a juicy and sweet pineapple salsa that brings these two disparate elements together beautifully. The leg of duck (£15.50) is also pretty good. Arriving on a mix of Oriental vegetables with a sweet hoi sin jus, the beautiful deep red skin wraps the roasted meat with wonderful deep flavours, just about making up for meat which is just a touch dry. The dessert menu is simple and delicious including homemade brownies, cheesecake and ice creams (£4.50).
The Drinks
A good drinks menu is also on offer, including a good selection of inventive cocktails. The Gate Collins is refreshing and incredibly easy to drink, with fresh raspberries, Chambord and lemon juice. The mojito is of an equally impressive standard – a classic has to be made well to be the real deal and the bar staff get this one pretty much spot on. For those who really want a kick, the Wokka Saki Martini is a vodka martini with saki and vermouth, as well as a garnish of lemon zest.
The Last Word
The Gate is an interesting little find and definitely has all the elements to continue being a success, even if you do just wish it would have a bit more confidence what it's doing. The food is good and if you head along later in the evening, you should be in for a good night.