Restaurants

Raoul’s ever-popular original in Maida Vale may be the more established of this sibling pair but far from letting big sis garner all the attention, this branch attracts its own glossy customer set. Boho model-types fill shaded pavement tables on sunny days; the bright interior features stylish lighting and huge mirrors, chic leather banquettes and an intimate basement bar. The all-day brunch menu goes down a storm with the weekend Portobello Market crowds refuelling on baguettes, pancakes and shakes, but we recommend getting in most of your recommended five-a-day with the huge and fruit-packed smoothies and wonderful fresh salads. Well-sourced, quality ingredients are the key here: bright yellow eggs from Mugello in Italy make for flavoursome, fluffy omelettes and fantastic eggs Florentine; chorizo tortilla, with top-notch, non-fatty sausage and spring onion, was the best we’ve had. It’s not cheap, with prices reflecting the W11 postcode, but the food’s good and swift and professional service is an additional draw.

Time Out Eating & Drinking Guide 2009