Pomona’s in Notting Hill looks across the proverbial pond (and ‘flyover’ country) to land its culinary sights on Californian shores for inspiration.
I had a lovely lunch there recently. Dining outside in the restaurant’s large terrace on a sunny summer day, I felt as though I was in California, though I was plenty pleased to be in London enjoying a fine meal in such a nice setting.
The menu shines bright with minimal-ingredient dishes that nonetheless suggest a understanding of flavours and how to combine them. Two small plates I found especially tasty were the crisp duck with cucumber, spring onion, plum sauce and sesame seeds (£6) and the squid also served crisp with fresh made romesco (£6). More substantial was my main: dry aged sirloin with wild mushrooms, spinach, and Béarnaise (£18).
Cucumber sorbet before dessert was offered cleansed and refreshed. Sticky toffee pudding sundae with vanilla ice cream (£7) followed by a double espresso (worth dropping by for if you’re in the area in need of an a.m. pick up) rounded out a terrific al fresco afternoon.
A green smoothie (spinach, apple, cucumber, nutmeg, £6) to being quenched my thirst mightily. A subsequent jalapeno margarita (£9.50) did so as well – with particularly pronounced kick.
Service was friendly and quick during my visit.
If you find yourself in Notting Hill next time the sun’s out and crave a taste of California cool, I doubt you’ll find a better place to while time and eat well than Pomona’s.
Pomona’s is located at 47 Herefordnxt time Road, W2 5AH. Find out more at pomonas.co.uk.
