On Friday 29 April 2016, the hugely successful Cottons Caribbean Restaurant and Salon de Rhum will be launching its brand new flagship restaurant in Notting Hill, a stone’s throw from Notting Hill Gate Underground.
The restaurant and bar is set to bring the exotic vibes of the Caribbean to Notting Hill in true tiki style. Sitting centrally (157-159 Notting Hill Gate W11), the sky-blue exterior and tropical statement planters mark the entrance to the restaurant.The floor-to-ceiling glass frontage reveals a colourful interior packed full of contagious Caribbean spirit.
On the ground floor, seating is arranged around a central bar adorned with multicoloured bamboo. Behind the bar, the largest collection of rum in the UK stands proudly, with over 300 varieties available. Marinated exotic fruit-filled jars displayed on the wood shelving are a key ingredient in the renowned Cottons cocktails.
Opposite the bar, a hand painted floor-to-ceiling wall mural depicting a vibrant, tropical jungle scene spans the entire length of the wall. Suspended brass lighting with filament bulbs hang from the ceiling, creating a traditional tikki shack feel. In the bar area, diners will be able to enjoy bar snacks and sharing plates such as Jerk pork ribs (£7), Oxtail & bean stew (£7.50), and Ackee & saltfish (£7.50). Meanwhile, those in need of a coffee fix can enjoy a caffeine boost courtesy of the brand new Fracino coffee machine.
The Glass House main restaurant is positioned towards the rear of the space. A large skylight allows natural light to shine directly into the open plan room, thus complementing the antique chandelier. The authentic décor is completed with oak wood flooring, beamed ceilings and a scattering of bonsai plants. Traditional Caribbean cuisine will be served Monday to Friday with lunch from Noon-3pm; afternoon tea from 3pm-6pm; and dinner 5pm-11pm. Dishes will include: Barbecue glazed pork belly with rum & molasses, pickled vegetables (£7); Trinidadian steamed red mullet in Chadon beni garlic butter, provision salad (£17); with sides of Rice n peas; and Fried plantain (£3 each).
The Weekend Brunch will be served on Saturday and Sunday from 10am until 3pm; with dinner from 4pm-11pm. Brunch will feature Avocado Benedict (£8); Caribbean breakfast (£8.50); Quinoa & smoked beetroot salad (£8). Pick me up smoothies (£5, plus £2.50 for a spirit shot) include the Tobago; Kingston; and Blue Mountain. Vegan, gluten free and vegetarian platters will also be on the menu.
The restaurant has a large self-contained party and private dining space. Folding wooden doors reveal another statement wall mural, this time depicting an enchanting beachside scene. The bright, sunny space is paved with terracotta tiles, while a large antique golden mirror adorns the wall.
The original Cottons opened in Camden over 30 years’ ago and is still thriving today, while the Street Food extraordinaire Boxpark Cottons in Shoreditch launched over three years ago. Cottons Notting Hill will be the couture sister to the brand offering a more refined experience, but still keeping the colourful vibe and authentic Caribbean flavours for which Cottons is renowned.
Jamaican born Head Chef, Nikki McLeod, held the reins at Cottons Camden for 10 years. French Manager, Frederic Fawkes, was previously Restaurant Manager at Paradise at Kensal Green, and has also worked in Saint Martin in the Caribbean.
Cottons Caribbean Restaurant and Salon de Rhum
157-159 Notting Hill Gate, London, W11