Artisan Raw Dining In Trendy Notting Hill, London W11

Ever since Nama Artisan Raw Foods opened up in classy London suburb of Notting Hill (a stones throw from the Portobello Road) I've been wanting to visit.  I finally took myself, a friend, and a healthy appetite there in May.  The small restaurant is decorated a la minimalist, clean lines and seven shades of white. Its large, glass front was streaming in the afternoon sunshine.  It felt fresh and clean.  Just the atmosphere for being with friends and enjoying a healthy raw gourmet treat.  I'd gotten a bit lost (I blame it on Google maps!) getting to the restaurant so I was properly hungry and ready for a spot of weekend feasting!

My (very patient!) friend had been waiting for me to arrive so he had already perused the menu and chosen the dish he wanted.  After a quick scan and a tussle between curry and a sushi platter I settled on the cauliflower based Thai Coconut Curry, and he opted for the Lasagne Verdure.  We shared a small plate of sauerkraut and crackers as something to stop the gnawing hunger (and our stomachs noisily signalling it was time to eat!).  We did not wait too long before our friendly server brought us our dishes.  10 out of 10 for presentation, but what about the taste test?  The Coconut Curry was delicious with a lovely coconut based sauce. Full of flavour and just the correct amount of heat (for me).  The rice made from kohlrabi pulsed in a blender, was the perfect light accompaniment.  My friend cleared his plate and declared the lasagne a triumph.

I wasn't particularly hungry after my rich curry (the sauce is made from fresh young coconut) so we decided to share the plate of Selection of Sweet Treats for dessert.  Which we both expected to have a taster of the fermented blueberry cheesecake on, but alas it comprised of a rather disappointing array of small raw, heavily date based confections.  One of the bites however, did stand out from the rest and I could have eaten a ton of them. A sweet, delicate the trio of coconut nibbles. They tasted just like a Bounty Bar!  Lovely. But why give three on a platter that two people were sharing?! War could have erupted right there!  Next time I will just ask for a plate of coconut treats (all to myself!).

The restaurant was not packed, as most of the diners were seated outside. I suspect evenings would be much busier and so have more of a buzzing atmosphere. Whatever time of day, I will definitely return.  As would my carnivorous dining companion.  

Cost for our raw organic lunch, without drinks, for both was just under £50.  Not bad for such salubrious surroundings in the heart of London.

Note: An optional 12.5%  tip is automatically added to the bill. 

Everything on the menu is vegan, wheat and dairy free.

Nama Artisan Raw Foods

1. 110 Talbot Road, London W11 1JR

   020 7313 4638