Chic Greek on a Famous London Street
- Where? Nottinghill Gate, 100 Portobello Rd, London W11 2QD
- How much? ££
- Cuisine? Greek
- Menu? Lunch & dinner a la carte, tasting menu options
- Vegetarian options? Yes
- Vegan options? Yes, limited
- Gluten free options? Yes
I’d often wandered past Zephyr on my way down Portobello Road, admiring the green glisten of wine glasses catching the sunlight through the window. It is a restaurant that exudes sophistication and class, even before you step inside, with its matte black frame and imposing windows; it’s impossible to walk by without feeling an air of envy towards those inside indulging in wine and food.
I thought it was about time I put out the flame of jealousy that had been coursing through me since my first encounter with Zephyr, and so booked myself in for lunch! Inside, the decor and atmosphere are even more impressive; an art deco-esque design, with vibrant, contorted glassware, intimate seating and abstract artwork that asymmetrically decorates the walls. It’s a very relaxed, yet elegant restaurant, filled with conversation and happy customers.
The Food
Bread Basket with Smoked Aubergine Dip – £15
7.7/10 – To start, we ordered in a basket of sourdough, pitta and bread chips, with a smokey and aromatic aubergine spread. The bread was warm and fresh, slightly charred, giving it a subtle bitterness, which paired beautifully with the sweet tang of the aubergine. The aubergine dip was full of flavour and texture; large chunks of aubergine in a creamy, nutty sauce, topped with crispy fried onions for a little extra bite. Really delicious, highly recommend.
Greek Salad – £19
8.9/10 – This was my favourite item from the menu. Fresh, crunchy, packed full of flavour, it was such a refreshing dish. I loved the texture of the salad, with its large cut tomatoes and feta, ensuring you got a mouthful of deliciousness in every bit. I couldn’t stop eating this, highly recommend!
Crispy Potato Terrine – £16
4.4/10 – This was the dish that most excited me, and the only dish that disappointed. I had seen people rave about this online beforehand and couldn’t wait to give it a try, but for me personally, the flavours just didn’t work. The only way I can really describe the consistency and flavour of the custard crown is by likening it to American burger cheese, plastic and artificial. Whilst the potato terrine was nice on its own, it wasn’t special and was ultimately ruined by the lingering flavour of the custard.
Popcorn Chicken – £15
6.4/10 – A dish that is difficult to get wrong, but even harder to excel on. A staple crowd pleaser, and it was exactly that. Nice, tender, but not overly memorable.
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