Nestled on a tranquil street just a stone’s throw from the bustling Portobello Road in Notting Hill, Core rewrites the narrative of upscale dining.
Instead of the expected opulence of white tablecloths and expansive wine lists, this restaurant embraces a more relaxed and welcoming vibe.
The airy dining room, adorned with light wooden accents and softly upholstered beige banquettes, encourages diners to unwind.
A recent Friday lunch revealed a clientele decked out in casual wear—knit sweaters and sneakers reigning over the typical business attire.
Culinary Excellence Amidst Relaxation
Yet, beneath its inviting atmosphere lies a kitchen committed to the highest culinary standards.
Core is among only six establishments in London to boast three Michelin stars, and a reservation is often a coveted prize, requiring at least 91 days’ notice.
Diners looking to experience the “Core Classics” tasting menu with paired wines should prepare for a bill of approximately £390 per person (around $500).
However, the restaurant’s chef-owner, Clare Smyth, expertly balances sophistication with accessibility, embodying the essence of casual luxury.
Smyth’s design of Core’s approachable environment is no accident; it reflects a broader trend moving away from the stiff conventions of traditional fine dining.
Many patrons find such rigidity off-putting, and Smyth has set out to prioritize the culinary adventure above all else.
The restaurant’s menus favor clarity, steering clear of jargon that might alienate guests.
Additionally, the wine list features playful illustrations and straightforward descriptions to make exploration enjoyable for everyone.
The Culinary Journey of Clare Smyth
An interview with Smyth at Whiskey & Seaweed—the adjacent bar named after a signature cocktail that fuses Irish whiskey and sea greens—adds a delightful dimension to the experience.
Dressed in her chef’s garb post-lunch service, she radiates dedication to her craft.
Distinctively, Smyth dons a luxurious Hublot watch, a remarkable piece crafted from carbon fiber and Texalium, priced at $132,000.
Her role as an ambassador for Hublot aligns seamlessly with her culinary philosophy.
Known for its bold approach to luxury, Hublot’s unique materials and eye-catching designs mirror the innovative spirit that permeates Smyth’s culinary creations.
She has a knack for transforming ordinary ingredients into extraordinary dishes.
Smyth’s cooking philosophy draws heavily from her roots in Northern Ireland, emphasizing authenticity and simplicity.
Take, for instance, “Potato and Roe,” a signature dish that features a Charlotte potato topped with herring roe, fresh herbs, and homemade salt-and-vinegar chips.
What makes it remarkable isn’t just the flavors; it’s the story of its meticulous preparation, taking around 25 hours to perfect, all in honor of her upbringing around locally sourced potatoes.
Innovative Flavors and Accolades
Another standout dish, “Lamb Carrot,” tells a similarly compelling story.
Here, a single carrot is slow-cooked in lamb glaze and paired with sheep’s milk yogurt and carrot-top pesto.
This dish celebrates the unique flavors of these carrots, often overlooked amidst kitchen waste, showcasing the potential of seemingly mundane produce.
Smyth’s culinary confidence is well-earned, stemming from her extensive background in prestigious kitchens, including Heston Blumenthal’s The Fat Duck and Gordon Ramsay’s flagship restaurant.
Not only did she break barriers as the first woman to lead a three-Michelin-star kitchen in the UK, but her accolades, including an MBE in 2013 and the honor of catering Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s wedding reception, underscore her remarkable journey.
Currently, she balances her time between Core in Notting Hill and Oncore, an impressive venue perched on the 26th floor of Crown Sydney, which has drawn rave reviews for its lavish offerings.
The daring essence found in Smyth’s cuisine parallels Hublot’s audacious spirit.
Both shun the confines of traditional luxury, opting instead for fun and exuberance.
By breaking free from stuffy conventions, Smyth and Hublot invite diners and watch enthusiasts alike to revel in artistry without pretentiousness.
Just as Core redefines the norms of fine dining, Hublot challenges luxury standards, encouraging a joyful appreciation for the extraordinary in the everyday.
Source: Timeandtidewatches