The Pelican

The gastropub concept has spread quickly in London in recent years, led by the Public House group. Unlike the simple, quick snacks we're used to in classic English pubs, gastropubs welcome guests with a more refined approach: top-level ingredients, carefully composed plates and proper seated service. The pub spirit is kept, but the kitchen is taken seriously up a level.

The Public House group runs this concept across three London pubs. Our choice was The Pelican in Notting Hill. From outside it doesn't look very different from a classic neighbourhood pub: a crowd spilling onto the street, people talking standing up, mostly with beers in hand. But the atmosphere changes the moment you step inside. The food served at the tables is largely French-inspired, balanced and ambitious. In flavour, presentation and atmosphere it is well above expectations — a successful gastropub experience that breaks the classic pub image.