E&O - Notting Hill, London

E&O opened in 2001, yet still feels current more than fifteen years later. Located in Notting Hill's Blenheim Crescent, just a stone's throw away from Portobello Market, it offers a Pan-Asian experience par excellence. Since being founded by Will Ricker, it attracted universal acclaim upon opening and, according to our sprightly experience on a Thursday evening, appears to continue to fire on all cylinders.

The room itself is dark and seductively lit with red lighting that drench the room in an illicit magnetism. As you enter past the foyer you'll arrive at the bar, an intimate affair with dark wood laced along the walls, cosy booths and a plethora of tables for two bordering the windows. It was apparent that both style and substance were executed to a high order, and the patrons seemed to be recognising it as such and thoroughly enjoying themselves.

We relished an Elderflower Collins up on its arrival, crafted with Bombay Saphire, St Germain and lemonade, but were truly smitten by an Orient Espresso. Crafted with Finlandia vodka, Kahlua and umeshu cream, it was one of our all time favourite espresso martinis. Both cocktails played well with a vibrantly hued array of dim sum that were as toothsome as they were pretty. Wild pink shrimp tempura with spicy mayo was also a winner.

A plate of seabass sashimi with yuzu and truffle delivered with a flavour factor that shocked and stimulated the palate. However, our mains were where the kitchens truly dazzled. A succulent cut of grilled lamb served with garlicky kimchi delivered an uppercut of confident firework. A special of black cod with sweet miso would compete with the many Mayfair restaurants that specialise in the dish.

Throughout the meal the dishes were presented with tact and finesse. You can see how E&O has sustained itself throughout these years. Their reputation for excellent cocktails and eclectic Asian cuisine is well deserved.