Little Black Book: Notting Hills Tips from The Restory

It’s almost impossible to run out of things to do in Notting Hill, but we’re certainly giving it our best shot. From delicious eateries to ethical garment care, our latest run-down is more a who’s who of essentials in West London (and believe us – we’ve done the research.)

Wild at Heart

We may be biased, but we’re big fans of a time-honoured craft that lends a little beauty to the world, so we have to tip our hats to the breath-taking flower arrangements available at Wild at Heart on Westbourne Grove.

Think custom-made bouquets in rich, sophisticated palettes, which can be sent by same day delivery in London (lifesavers). They also do extravagantly gorgeous weddings, if you’re a bride-to-be looking to hear gasps on your big day, as well as rustic wreaths which are perfect for the holiday season.

They have a handful of sites scattered across London, but their Notting Hill branch, Turquoise Island, is where it all began, and a must for sending the perfect “just because” token.

Gail’s Bakery

There’s possibly nothing in the world more magnetic than the smell of freshly baked bread, so it’s totally understandable why the Notting Hill locals make a bee-line to Gail’s Bakery on Portobello Road.

Gail’s bakes stacks of fresh loaves every day, but their real pride is the satisfying mix of balanced meal options and more-ish treats. You could start the day with a breakfast shakshuka and grab a lunchtime vegan quinoa, if you’re feeling wholesome, but rest assured knowing there are always artisan-quality pastries and cakes on offer, too.

It’s great for a coffee fix, with a warm, buzzy atmosphere that feels more homey than your household name chain cafés.

Blanc garment care

We believe in top-to-toe wardrobe care, so naturally we have a favourite Notting Hill stop for a great dry cleaning service.

Blanc’s ethos is “naturally cleaner”, and they really deliver on that – exquisite dry cleaning services that are also incredibly ecological. They use clever technology and non-toxic, biodegradable detergents that are way kinder on the planet and your skin than the normal dry cleaner fare.

Because they’re specialists you can take most sartorial conundrums their way, from cleaning to alterations and mends. Plus, just like us, they offer collection and delivery services in much of London. Anyone who can take another chore off the to-do list is a friend of ours.