Stumbled upon Zima Restaurant in Notting Hill on a quiet evening, and what a hidden gem it turned out to be. From the moment we walked in, it felt like we’d stepped into a little slice of Russia not the cliché kind, but something far more charming and authentic.
We kicked things off with the zakuski set an d couldn’t resist trying the traditional Zima —loo a beautifully presented, ice-cold shot paired with classic bites that set the tone for the evening. It felt like a ritual, not just a starter.
For mains, I ordered the chicken cutlet and draniki crispy potato rosti with a golden edge, comforting and nostalgic, like something a Russian grandma might make on a Sunday. The cutlet was juicy and tender, simple but satisfying in the best way.
Dessert was syrnitki- soft, warm Russian pancakes with a light sweetness, paired with just the right amount of condensed milk. It was the kind of dessert that makes you slow down and savour every bite.
And let’s not forget the cocktails beautifully mixed, smooth, and surprisingly creative. Not just an afterthought, but a real highlight.
The vibe inside was intimate, with warm lighting and little nods to Russian culture throughout the space. The staff were lovely attentive, knowledgeable, and genuinely passionate about the food they served.
Zima isn’t just a restaurant, it’s an experience. Whether you’re new to Russian cuisine or already a fan, it’s definitely worth a visit. I’m already looking forward...
Read moreI went to this Russian restaurant with my girlfriend to celebrate her birthday. We had never tried Russian cuisine before, so we decided to do something different.
As soon as we arrived, we were immediately impressed by the atmosphere of the place. It was very warm and charming, and our table – like the entire space – was spotless.
We started by ordering two cocktails, which were generous in size, incredibly tasty, and made with Russian vodka that they produce in-house.
For starters, we had two cold soups, which were very unique and flavorful. Then we ordered two main dishes (beef stroganoff) and one sharing plate – the dumplings. All three dishes were delicious and served in satisfying portions.
For dessert, we chose the traditional honey cake, which truly impressed us. It was on another level – unbelievably tasty. The only “negative” for me was that I didn’t want it to end; it was so good I just wanted more!
The prices were very reasonable considering the quality and the overall experience the restaurant offered. We’ll definitely...
Read moreZima is an amazing restaurant that truly excels in Russian and Eastern European cuisine. Their dumplings are the best I've ever had, perfectly cooked and bursting with flavor. The beef stroganoff is rich and hearty, making for a comforting meal that warms the soul. Don’t miss their okroshka, a refreshing and invigorating dish that highlights the restaurant's commitment to authenticity.
A standout aspect of Zima is their unique nastoyka shots, crafted with natural ingredients and featuring delightful flavors like cherry, cranberry, strawberry and many more. These shots provide a fantastic way to enhance your meal and experience the essence of Eastern European beverages.
The atmosphere at Zima is cozy and inviting, making it a great spot for a relaxed dining experience. They also boast a great selection of natural and unique teas. The service is friendly and attentive, adding to the overall enjoyable experience.
If you're looking for a taste of Eastern Europe, Zima is definitely...
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