Redemption, London’s newest alcohol-free restaurant and bar, has just opened in Notting Hill.
The restaurant offers a refuge for those who want to go out, but want more healthy, ethical options. Their mantra… “Spoil yourself without spoiling yourself”.
London’s social scene revolves around alcohol. When I first moved to London, this was one of the aspects that took me the longest to get used to. I was shocked that there was nowhere to go grab a coffee past 6 or 7, and that most first dates involved pints down at the pub.
This is where Redemption comes in. Owner, Catherine Salway, wanted to create an alcohol-free zone, with a focus on serving super-healthy vegan and vegetarian menu with a zero-waste policy. At first I was a little skeptical, that a place called Redemption, might be one of those holier than thou, patchouli smelling, hippy places… but this couldn’t be further from the truth.
My sister Amy and I popped down on a Thursday night, a week after their official opening. The restaurant was packed, with trendy local customers. Eavesdropping on the table next to us, the group were discussing what a great edition it was to the neighbourhood, and how they would definitely become a regulars. Needless to say it seems Catherine has tapped intosomething Londoners crave.
I started with a apple mock-jito, made from muddled apple presse, fresh mint and lime, served over ice and topped with soda. It was absolutely delicious.
The menu lived up to its promise of letting you “spoil yourself without spoiling yourself.”
I opted for the courgette spaghetti, tossed in walnut and pumpkin seed pesto. A refreshing alternative to carb-heavy pasta.
The maki rolls platter was clearly a favourite amongst dinners; filled with red and black quinoa, avocado, mushroom and sesame seeds, it was beautifully presented and like everything else delicious.
The best part of the meal however was the ‘Cheesecake’ made from strawberries, cashews and coconut on an almond and medjool date base. It was rich and creamy and of course guilt free – perfect for those with a sweet tooth like me!
To wrap up the evening, we opted for one last cocktail, the lettuce spray. The unusual Japanese-inspired cocktail is made of iceberg lettuce, lime, cucumber, wasabi and aloe vera. I know it sounds strange, but trust me it’s a must have.
Overall, there is not a single thing I can fault Redemption on. From decor and atmosphere, to the food and cocktails, the whole evening was fantastic. It is definitely not your usual evening out in London, but is a much welcomed addition to London’s healthy dining scene.
Redemption, Notting Hill, 6 Chepstow Road, W2 5BH.