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Caractère, located in Notting Hill, London, is celebrated for its contemporary European cuisine that artfully blends French and Italian influences. The husband-and-wife duo, Diego Ferrari and Emily Roux, bring their classical French training and passion for Italian food to the menu, creating a unique dining experience. The restaurant offers a variety of dining options, including a three-course set lunch menu and a five-course tasting menu, both featuring seasonal ingredients and creative presentations. Patrons frequently praise the restaurant for its exceptional food quality, attentive service, and elegant ambiance. Many commend the innovative dishes and warm atmosphere, making it a favored choice for special occasions and casual dining alike.

Caractère: A Culinary Gem in Notting Hill London 

Nestled in the heart of Notting Hill at 209 Westbourne Park Road, Caractère is a distinctive London restaurant that masterfully blends French and Italian cuisines. Renowned for its innovative concept, the menu is thoughtfully divided into six unique character profiles — Curious, Subtle, Delicate, Robust, Strong, and Greedy — allowing diners to embark on a personalized gastronomic journey that tantalizes every palate.

Caractère presents an elegant yet unpretentious environment where exposed brick walls and art deco accents blend with plush seating to create a warm and inviting dining space. The staff are frequently praised for their attentive, friendly approach, ensuring each guest feels genuinely welcomed and well cared for. Whether you are celebrating a special occasion or simply savoring a fine meal, the venue strikes a perfect balance between sophistication and comfort.

 at Caractère is a true work of art, expertly executed by chefs Diego and Gaetano. Diners revel in artfully plated dishes from the five-course tasting menu or a la carte options, featuring standout ingredients like Orkney scallops, bluefin tuna, saffron risotto, Cornish cod, wild monkfish, and saddle of lamb. The flavor combinations are both bold and refined, delivering a memorable culinary journey.

Guests often highlight the pleasant pacing of courses, mouthwatering amuse-bouche and petit-fours on the house, and a thoughtfully curated wine selection by top sommelier Marco. The restaurant’s commitment to freshness and lightness ensures that diners leave feeling satisfied but not overstuffed.

The à la carte menu ranges from £60 to £115, while the five-course tasting menu is set at £78 with an optional £72 wine pairing.

Yes, Caractère offers a romantic ambiance perfect for anniversaries, celebrations, and intimate dining experiences.

Vegetarian-friendly and gluten-free dishes are thoughtfully included on the menu to accommodate diverse preferences.

It’s advised to book your table in advance due to the restaurant’s popularity and limited seating.

Open Tuesday to Saturday, lunch service from 12:00 PM to 1:45 PM and dinner from 6:15 PM to 9:00 PM.

Diners consistently laud Caractère for its exceptional food quality, innovative and beautifully presented dishes, and a welcoming atmosphere that feels genuine and warm. Many reviewers highlight it as a hidden gem within the London dining scene, praising the professional yet relaxed service and describing their visits as unforgettable experiences. The fusion of French and Italian flavors with a modern touch has set a new standard for fine dining without the pretentiousness, making it a must-visit for food enthusiasts and special occasion celebrations alike.

Europe

United Kingdom

Nestled in the heart of London, Caractère is a culinary gem that invites diners to embark on a gastronomic journey like no other. This charming restaurant, located at 209 Westbourne Park Rd, is renowned for its innovative dishes that blend traditional techniques with modern flair. As you step inside, the warm ambiance envelops you, setting the stage for an unforgettable dining experience.

At Caractère, every dish is a masterpiece, meticulously crafted to tantalize the taste buds. The standout dish, the Roast Orkney Scallop, is a symphony of flavors, perfectly seared and served with a delicate saffron risotto that melts in your mouth. Another must-try is the Celeriac Cacio e Pepe, a modern twist on a classic Italian dish, featuring rich, creamy flavors that linger long after the last bite. The presentation is nothing short of art, with each plate telling a story of culinary passion.

One of the most enchanting aspects of Caractère is its commitment to seasonal ingredients, ensuring that every visit brings something new to the table. The chefs, Diego and Gaetano, are known for their innovative approach, often surprising guests with unexpected flavor combinations. A delightful anecdote shared by a frequent diner recounts how a special tasting menu was crafted around a single ingredient, allowing it to shine in various forms throughout the meal.

Located in the vibrant Notting Hill area, Caractère is surrounded by a plethora of attractions. Just a short stroll away, you can explore the eclectic shops of Portobello Road Market or take a leisurely walk through the picturesque streets lined with colorful houses. The area is also rich in cultural experiences, with the iconic Notting Hill Carnival and various art galleries nearby.

Caractère is celebrated for its innovative dishes and exceptional service, offering a fine dining experience without the pretentious atmosphere.

Visiting Caractère promises a delightful culinary adventure, where each dish tells a story, and the ambiance is warm and inviting.

Nearby attractions include the vibrant Portobello Road Market and the charming streets of Notting Hill, perfect for a post-meal stroll.

Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply seeking an extraordinary meal, Caractère is the destination for you. Book your table today and immerse yourself in a dining experience that is sure to leave a lasting impression.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNQNXNpZjlBRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJEbr-hcMRdkgR-hV6o35EUno/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNQNXNpZjlBRRAB

Caractère provided an exceptional dining experience that exceeded all expectations. We chose this restaurant to celebrate our anniversary, and it proved to be an unforgettable evening. Having dined at nearby establishments (the Ledbury & Dorian), I can confidently this is way better in quality and atmosphere!

The staff were incredibly welcoming and attentive, creating an environment that felt warm and genuine. Their passion for what they do was evident, adding to the overall charm of the evening. As for the food—every dish was a masterpiece. The flavors were exquisite, and the presentation was nothing short of perfection.

Caractère has set a new standard for fine dining, and I look forward to returning time and time again. I highly recommend this restaurant to anyone seeking an extraordinary culinary experience. A heartfelt thank you to the entire Caractère team for making our celebration so special! ❤️

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNQLXRtdWtnRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJEbr-hcMRdkgR-hV6o35EUno/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNQLXRtdWtnRRAB

This place has nailed fine dining sans the uptight atmosphere. I feel this restaurant isn’t talked about enough in the London scene despite its caliber of both service and cooking. We went for a lovely lunch here and loved pretty much every dish - innovative food with classic / refined execution. The presentation is BEAUTIFUL, both the plating as well as all the different elements. Fantastic pacing and very professional, well trained and friendly service. Amuse bouche and petit-fours on the house were absolutely mouthwatering… prawn risotto was straight out of an art gallery with great flavor, celeriac Caio e Pepe was very moreish. Fish main flaked away, incredible flavor on the lamb. The frangipani tart was gone in 5 minutes. Price is unbeatable for lunch. Would absolutely come again and take a family member, a friend or even a client. What’s not to love? Great ambience, food, and service!

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURibEo2bHVnRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJEbr-hcMRdkgR-hV6o35EUno/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURibEo2bHVnRRAB

Wonderful food in an elegant but non stuffy setting. The tasting menu is delicious and offers you the choice between two dishes for each of the several courses. What was particularly good was that whilst the food had a modern European haute cuisine style, it was fresh and light, only the meat course was rich but needless to say very delicious. I finished my meal full but not bloated and overall had a lovely meal. The staff were friendly and genial. Would love to return.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURIbXQzek1BEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJEbr-hcMRdkgR-hV6o35EUno/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURIbXQzek1BEAE

The fact that Caractere doesn’t have a star yet is a crime. The food is incredible, plentiful and innovative. Service and ambience are laid back yet attentive. Quite possibly the best dining experience I’ve had all year.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURubWFUQnN3RRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJEbr-hcMRdkgR-hV6o35EUno/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURubWFUQnN3RRAB

Caractère
For the last five years we’ve enjoyed absolutely amazing food and service at Caractère and on Saturday which was our eleventh visit was no exception.
I’ve said a few times now that I don’t understand why they haven’t got a star because personally I think this restaurant is better than many michelin star establishments.
Anyway onto our latest visit where we enjoyed a fantastic Tasting Menu matched with fabulous wine and first class service. It was also a pleasure to chat with Emily , Diego , Marco , Matteo and all the team.
We arrived to receive the friendliest of welcome’s before taking our seats at our usual table. We started with a cocktail before Emily appeared to personally welcome us back have a chat and to tell us that the menu was full of new dishes for us to try.
Indeed the menu which is a five course Tasting Menu with a choice of two dishes in each section looked very appetising. There is also a choice of a la carte or the lunch menu. We can now say that after enjoying every single dish created by chefs Diego and Gaetano they were incredible with outstanding flavour combinations. The highlights were the Roast Orkney Scallop . Bluefin Tuna , Saffron Risotto , Cornish Cod , Wild Monkfish , Saddle of Lamb and Squab Pigeon. This was finished with Cheese and a heavenly chocolate Dessert.
The wine selection by top sommelier Marco was a Zidarich Terran 2019 and paired beautifully with the menu and an amazing Jurancon with the dessert.
The consistency of food , wine and service at Caractère on Saturday was amazing just like every occasion since our first visit in 2019.
This is why I would highly recommend a visit to experience this for yourselves.
Thank You to all the team at Caractère and looking forward to seeing you all again soon.

Caractère: Luxury Fine Dining in West London, UK

Caractère is an independent fine dining restaurant situated in the heart of Notting Hill, London. Founded by husband-and-wife duo Diego Ferrari and Emily Roux, the restaurant combines classical French training with a love for Italian cuisine, offering a unique dining experience.

Caractère: A Culinary Journey Through Time in Notting Hill London 

Nestled in the vibrant heart of Notting Hill, London, Caractère brings a distinctive fusion of French elegance and Italian passion to the city's dynamic dining scene. Founded in 2018 by the talented chefs Emily Roux and Diego Ferrari, both steeped in classic French culinary training yet deeply inspired by Italian flavors, this restaurant quickly carved out a niche for lovers of refined European cuisine.

Since its grand opening in 2018, Caractère has been recognized for its innovative menu that skillfully balances traditional techniques with contemporary flair. The Guardian took note in 2019, praising the restaurant’s unique ambiance and inventive culinary approach, which helped establish Caractère as a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts in London.

The momentum continued in 2020 when Caractère earned coveted recognition by being featured in the prestigious MICHELIN Guide, a testament to its high-caliber cooking and outstanding dining experience. This accolade further solidified its reputation as a leading restaurant blending French and Italian culinary traditions with an imaginative twist.

Caractère's commitment to culinary excellence was further rewarded in 2021 with a Travellers’ Choice award from TripAdvisor, placing it among the top 10% of restaurants worldwide based on guest reviews and satisfaction. This milestone reflects the restaurant’s unwavering dedication to delivering an exceptional dining experience that resonates deeply with guests, from locals to international visitors.

In 2023, Caractère celebrated its fifth anniversary, a remarkable achievement that marks half a decade of culinary innovation, impeccable service, and a warm atmosphere that invites guests to savor exquisite dishes crafted with passion and precision. The restaurant continues to earn high praise for its refined yet approachable menu that beautifully marries French and Italian flavors.

 Masterful blending of two rich culinary traditions to create innovative, flavor-packed dishes.

 Chefs Emily Roux and Diego Ferrari bring refined expertise and passion to every dish served.

 Recognized by the MICHELIN Guide and TripAdvisor for excellence in dining quality and service.

 Seamlessly combining elegance with a relaxed vibe to create a memorable dining experience.

Dine In

Restroom

Reservable

Serves Beer

Serves Wine

Serves Lunch

Serves Dinner

Serves Dessert

Accepts Credit Cards

Caractère, a culinary gem on Westbourne Park Road, beckons with the promise of delightful indulgence in the vibrant heart of London. This enchanting eatery captures the essence of contemporary dining, offering a menu that harmoniously blends French sophistication with local ingredients. The ambiance envelops you in warmth, featuring elegant yet comfortable decor that invites you to linger over a delicious meal. With artistic presentations of each dish, seasonal offerings reflect the spirit of the city, crafted by skilled chefs who blend creativity and tradition. Caractère is a community hub where flavors tell stories, making it a perfect spot for intimate dinners or leisurely brunches.

Caractère

A selection of contemporary European dishes crafted with seasonal ingredients, offering a unique dining experience in Notting Hill.

Braised Leek and Mushroom Tart

Roast Diver Scallops

Confit Chicken Oyster

"Acquerello" Risotto

Roasted and Puréed Jerusalem Artichokes

Celeriac "Cacio e Pepe"

Steamed Turbot

Grilled Monkfish

Seared Cornish Cod

Roast Rack of Herdwick Lamb

Slow Cooked Ox Cheek Ravioli

Braised Veal Shin

Gorgonzola Dolce

Arlettes Mille-Feuille

Chocolate Cake

Choux

Caractère Restaurant Menu

Discover the Caractère menu at 209 Westbourne Park Road, London, where French and Italian culinary traditions blend seamlessly into an extraordinary dining experience.

Caractère invites food lovers to indulge in a refined selection of exquisite dishes crafted with passion and precision. Every plate is a celebration of seasonal ingredients and innovative flavors, designed to delight discerning palates seeking freshness and elegance in a relaxed yet sophisticated atmosphere.

 offers a delicate balance of creamy gorgonzola cheese paired with a fresh baby leaf salad and carefully chosen accompaniments, creating a refreshing and flavorful start to your meal.

, a luscious dish featuring premium Acquerello rice enriched with almond praline, reduced port, and a striking black crumble that adds texture and depth to every bite.

 reimagines the classic Italian flavors with tender celeriac, Grana Padano cheese, cracked black pepper, and a splash of balsamic vinegar, delivering a dish that's both hearty and vibrant.

 showcases perfectly cooked monkfish presented with a delicate foam, highlighting the fish's natural sweetness and tender texture for a refined seafood experience.

 are expertly prepared to retain their succulent juiciness, offering a luxurious bite that celebrates the freshness of premium scallops.

 with pink Yorkshire rhubarb, diplomat cream, and refreshing sorbet offers a delicate and airy finish to your meal.

 features rich chocolate layered with pecan praline, salted caramel sauce, and mascarpone ice cream for a decadent indulgence.

 delights with a hazelnut praline filling, vanilla essence, and a smooth crème anglaise, combining classic flavors with elegant technique.

Beverages and specials to complement your meal

Caractère also offers an impressive selection of fine wines and expertly crafted cocktails, curated to enhance each course and elevate your dining experience. Whether you prefer a classic cocktail or a sommelier’s recommendation, the drink menu perfectly balances the innovative spirit of the kitchen.

Savor exquisite flavors at Caractère, a top London eatery on Westbourne Park Rd. Indulge in a culinary journey today!

Caractère: Best Dining in London on Westbourne Park Rd

London Borough of Kensington and Chelsea

A three-course set menu including coffee and water, with optional wine pairing.

Lunch Menu

A five-course menu with a choice of dishes from each 'character' profile, with optional wine pairing.

Tasting Menu

Experience Caractère: London's Hidden Gem of Fine Dining in W11 Westbourne Park Road United Kingdom England Great Britain London GB 209 Westbourne Park Rd W11 1EA 

Nestled in the heart of London's vibrant W11 district, Caractère redefines fine dining with an inviting and unpretentious atmosphere. Situated at 209 Westbourne Park Road, this culinary hotspot offers an exceptional experience for food lovers seeking an innovative European haute cuisine journey without the formal stiffness often associated with Michelin-starred establishments.

A Gourmet Adventure with the Tasting Menu

Caractère's signature offering is its exquisite five-course tasting menu priced at £78. Guests relish the unique freedom to select one dish from each of the six distinct character profiles, ensuring a highly personalized and memorable meal. From the delicate Roast Orkney Scallop to the succulent Saddle of Lamb, every plate is crafted with artistic flair and a perfect balance of fresh, light flavors that showcase modern European cuisine at its finest.

Enhance your dining experience with Caractère’s £72 wine pairing option, thoughtfully selected by their top sommelier. Each course is perfectly matched with a complementary wine, from the crisp Zidarich Terran 2019 to the luscious Jurançon served with dessert, elevating the flavors and creating a harmonious culinary symphony.

Why Caractère Stands Out in London’s Dining Scene

Despite its exceptional quality and innovative dishes, Caractère remains a bit of a hidden gem, beloved by locals and discerning visitors alike. Patrons praise the welcoming, attentive service that strikes the perfect balance between professionalism and warmth. The ambience is elegant but relaxed, making it ideal for special occasions, business dinners, or simply treating yourself to a refined yet comfortable dining experience.

 with fresh, innovative dishes that delight the palate.

 allowing diners to choose dishes that suit their tastes perfectly.

 that elevate the dining experience to new heights.

 and a friendly atmosphere that welcomes guests back time and again.

Caractère operates with a focus on dine-in experiences and offers reservations to ensure your spot at this coveted London restaurant. Though it does not provide takeout or delivery, its attentive service and beautifully plated dishes make visiting in person truly worthwhile. The venue serves lunch, dinner, and dessert, alongside coffee, cocktails, beer, and wine—perfect for a leisurely gourmet meal or a refined social gathering.

 This establishment is not suitable for children and does not offer outdoor seating or live music, making it a serene and focused environment for adults.

Whether you're a local Londoner or a trend-conscious traveler exploring Greater London, Caractère promises a culinary adventure filled with exquisite flavors, impeccable service, and an atmosphere that is both elegant and inviting. Book your experience today and discover why this Westbourne Park Road treasure is setting new standards in the London dining scene.

Discovering Caractère: A gem of fine dining in London W11 

Nestled at 209 Westbourne Park Road in the vibrant London W11 area, Caractère offers a sophisticated yet inviting culinary journey that expertly blends French and Italian influences. This restaurant has quickly garnered acclaim for its innovative menu and exceptional food quality, making it a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts and those seeking a memorable dining experience.

Exceptional dining experience with attentive service

Caractère stands out thanks to its highly attentive and friendly staff who create a warm, genuine ambiance. Guests consistently praise the professional and well-trained team that balances attentiveness with a laid-back vibe, making every visit feel special and welcoming. The elegant yet non-stuffy setting complements the restaurant’s commitment to delivering culinary excellence without the uptight atmosphere sometimes associated with fine dining.

Innovative menu and impressive culinary artistry

The menu at Caractère is a standout feature, offering imaginative dishes that marry French and Italian haute cuisine. Diners appreciate the refined execution and artistic presentation of each course, from the delicate amuse-bouche to the exquisite desserts. The tasting menu provides a choice between two dishes per course, catering to diverse palates including vegetarian and gluten-free options. However, some guests note that the menu divisions can be a bit confusing, which might require a bit of extra attention when ordering.

Exceptional food quality with French-Italian fusion, attentive and friendly service, romantic and elegant ambiance, vegetarian and gluten-free options, highly praised by critics and diners alike.

Higher price point, limited dessert options, some diners find the menu structure confusing.

While Caractère impresses with its quality and ambiance, prospective diners should be aware of a few trade-offs. The restaurant’s pricing reflects its high standards, which may be above average for casual outings. Additionally, dessert choices are somewhat limited compared to the expansive creativity of the savory courses. Despite these minor drawbacks, the overall experience remains highly rewarding.

In conclusion, Caractère is a culinary treasure in London’s Westbourne Park area that skillfully combines innovation, elegance, and warm hospitality. It is ideal for romantic dinners, special celebrations, and discerning diners seeking an extraordinary gastronomic adventure.

Greater London

Experience exceptional European cuisine at Caractère in Notting Hill, London. Fine dining, seasonal menus, and unique culinary delights await.

Caractère: Fine Dining in Notting Hill | London Restaurant

Discover Caractère in London W11, offering innovative dishes, elegant ambiance, and an unforgettable culinary journey in the heart of Notting Hill.

Explore Caractère: Top London Dining Experience | London

Indulge in exquisite dishes at Caractère, a premier London restaurant blending French and Italian influences with seasonal ingredients for a memorable meal.

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