Assaggi

It’s unlikely location could fool you into thinking you’ve happened upon a hidden gem, but Assaggi—even despite its intentionally discreet perch atop a pub in Notting Hill’s residential area—has been drawing in crowds (including a fair share of London A listers) for the past 15 odd years, like moths to a flame. There’s something awfully appealing about a place that doesn’t try too hard, and owners Pietro Fraccari and Nino Sassu (who’s also the chef) have succeeded in creating a space that is both unassuming and trendy at the same time. The walls are bathed in a warm peachy hue, with swatches of blue thrown in for good measure, and the seating accommodates no more than a dozen guests at a time. The menu is entirely in Italian, so you’ll require a recital from your waiter before placing your order. Alternatively, just ask for the crab laced with lemon for starters, followed by a main of either the gnocchi with venizen, or grilled fish, before winding down over a dessert of Bavarian cream and espresso.