Set on Blenheim Crescent, adjacent to the iconic Notting Hill Bookshop, ZIMA Restaurant has unveiled its second London location, bringing a refined slice of Eastern European and Russian culture to one of the capital’s most vibrant neighbourhoods.
Having officially opened on 14th February, ZIMA Notting Hill builds on the success of its Soho flagship, offering an intimate 45-seat space designed to immerse diners in the warmth of traditional hospitality reimagined for modern sensibilities. The arrival of this culinary gem underscores Notting Hill’s reputation as a hub for innovative dining, blending historic charm with contemporary sophistication.
The new venue’s strategic location positions it as both a destination for locals and a cultural landmark. By integrating itself into a neighbourhood celebrated for its eclectic mix of independent shops and cosmopolitan flair, ZIMA Notting Hill aims to enrich the area’s culinary tapestry.
Its proximity to Portobello Road’s bustling markets and artistic heritage further cements its role as a bridge between tradition and modernity, inviting patrons to explore Eastern Europe’s rich gastronomic legacy through a fresh lens.
Culinary Offerings: A Fusion of Tradition and Innovation
At the heart of ZIMA Notting Hill lies a menu that honours Eastern European and Russian classics while embracing contemporary creativity. Signature dishes from the Soho flagship remain staples, such as the Royal Siberian Black Caviar and Salmon Roe Res Caviar, served with freshly baked blinis. The beloved Olivier Salad,a decadent mix of chicken, salmon roe, and crisp vegetables,shares the spotlight with Pirozhki, fluffy buns stuffed with beef, chicken, or cabbage and eggs.
Seasonal highlights, like aubergine caviar paired with sourdough and baked apples drizzled in honey and cranberry jam, reflect the kitchen’s commitment to adaptability and flavour.
Chefs at ZIMA Notting Hill have meticulously reworked traditional recipes to appeal to discerning London palates. The Black Pelmeni, handmade dumplings filled with salmon and cod, exemplify this approach, balancing rustic authenticity with refined presentation.
Ingredients are sourced to evoke the essence of Eastern Europe, yet techniques align with global culinary trends, ensuring each dish resonates with both nostalgia and novelty. This duality extends to the beverage programme, where house-infused nastoykas (vodkas) flavoured with blackcurrant, horseradish, and other botanicals offer a vibrant, aromatic counterpoint to the food.
Seasonal Menus and Collaborative Chef Experiences
ZIMA Notting Hill elevates its offering through collaborations with acclaimed chefs, beginning this spring with Evgeny Vikentev, a Michelin-starred pioneer of modern Russian cuisine. These partnerships will see limited-edition menus and exclusive chef’s table events, granting guests access to innovative interpretations of regional specialties.
Vikentev’s involvement promises dishes that deconstruct and reimagine staples like borscht or stroganoff, merging avant-garde techniques with time-honoured flavours.
Seasonality remains central to the restaurant’s ethos. Winter menus feature hearty comforts such as slow-cured meats and root vegetable stews, while spring and summer will introduce lighter fare highlighting fresh herbs and pickled ingredients.
Rotating collaborations ensure the culinary narrative evolves, keeping regular patrons engaged and attracting new audiences eager to experience Eastern Europe’s diverse gastronomy through the vision of its most celebrated chefs.
Art, Design, and Cultural Immersion
Beyond the plate, ZIMA Notting Hill is a celebration of Eastern European art and heritage. The interior showcases an ever-changing exhibition curated by the owner, featuring pieces ranging from Imperial-era porcelain to avant-garde works by Kazimir Malevich. Contemporary artists like Nikolay Ovchinnikov and Ivan Lungin contribute bold statements, such as Ovchinnikov’s Black Square and Lungin’s Izbushka, which juxtapose rustic motifs with modernist minimalism.
The design scheme marries dark, moody tones with warm lighting and natural wood accents, creating an ambience that is both cosy and chic. A striking marble bar anchors the space, while folklore-inspired spinning wheels and Soviet-era artefacts add layers of storytelling. This aesthetic extends to the presentation of nastoykas, displayed like liquid art in bespoke glassware, reinforcing the restaurant’s role as a cultural curator as much as a dining destination.
A Commitment to Community and Hospitality
Lukas Rackauskas, Director of ZIMA Group, emphasises the brand’s mission to foster community: “We’re proud of the community we’ve built around the original ZIMA Restaurant in Soho and it’s with great excitement that we extend our concept, cuisine, and warm hospitality to the Notting Hill neighbourhood. Quite unlike anything else on the local landscape, we’re eager to introduce our culture and cuisine to a brand-new audience.”
This philosophy permeates every aspect of ZIMA Notting Hill, from its staff’s attentive service to its support for Eastern European artists and producers. By hosting cultural events and seasonal festivals, the restaurant aspires to become a gathering place for those curious about the region’s traditions, further diversifying London’s dynamic food scene.
Visit ZIMA Notting Hill: Location and Reservations
ZIMA Notting Hill is now open at 9 Blenheim Crescent, London, W11 2EE, operating daily from noon until late evening. Reservations are highly recommended, particularly for the upcoming chef’s table experiences with Evgeny Vikentev.
For bookings or further details, visit www.zima.restaurant/zimanotting. Follow ZIMA’s social channels for updates on art exhibitions, seasonal menus, and exclusive events.
