The Rum Kitchen Notting Hill closed permanently in April 2019
A group of smart young London entrepreneurs have captured the carefree, sun-kissed mood of a Caribbean beach shack with this restaurant and cocktail bar. The ground-floor dining room is decked out in colourful timbers, with an open kitchen and easy-going staff. Pop in for spicy soft-shell crab burger or salt-fish fritters, or settle down to a helping of jerk chicken or mutton curry with rice and peas. It’s fun and funky, promoted through social media and word of mouth among an upmarket, party-loving crowd – there’s no sign outside the door. “Everyone looked like they were having a good time. And so did we” reports one fan. From 11pm it’s party time and a playlist compiled by DJ Fast of Fun Lovin’ Criminals keeps the beat going in the basement. The dedicated rum bar holds more than 100 bottles; ask for a bespoke cocktail.