Notting Hill Brasserie, London

Tucked away among elegant houses on Kensington Park road, the Notting Hill Brasserie has none of the hustle and bustle of Notting Hill proper. Calling it a brasserie is a bit of a misnomer because it's really a seriously stylish and tastefully decorated restaurant. Aboriginal art, African carvings, abstract prints and some rather impressive sculptured toucans decorate the walls, while the whole place exudes an aura of calm sophistication without being intimidating, but it's definitely more of a dress up than dress down venue. The modern menu ranges from Fish Soups and Duck Comfits starters, to Red Snapper and Roasted Calves Liver and Lamb Kidney mains. Choose a wine to match from the wide list that has bottles to suit every taste.