Ed Sheeran's London Restaurant: A Critical Review of Bertie Blossoms in Notting Hill
Celebrities often expand their horizons beyond entertainment into ventures like restaurants, sparking public curiosity about their commitment to quality and value. This week, I visited Ed Sheeran's establishment, Bertie Blossoms, located on Portobello Road in Notting Hill, to assess whether it leverages his fame or stands as a genuine culinary destination.
The Ambiance and Initial Impressions
Bertie Blossoms opened in September 2019, promoting itself as an intimate restaurant blending Spanish flair with British comfort. Upon arrival, the exterior resembles a traditional pub, while the interior feels like a hipster living room with carpeted floors, wall art, bookshelves, and homely furnishings. The atmosphere is unique, though not particularly visually appealing, and the soundtrack features classic hits like Elton John's Bennie and the Jets, with minimal Ed Sheeran music.
Staff were warm and attentive from the start, with a bar attendant greeting me and escorting me upstairs. Water was promptly offered, though bottled still water costs £5. Booking is recommended, as I initially found the restaurant fully booked weeks in advance, yet on my reservation day, it was surprisingly quiet.
Menu and Pricing Discrepancies
The online menu promises tapas dishes like meatballs, fried chicken, and vegetables priced between £10 and £16, but in reality, prices are higher. For example, Bertie's Fried Chicken: Tingly Ted's is listed at £10 online but costs £14 in person. More notably, the restaurant focuses on just two main courses: Ed's Favourite-Rigatoni a la Vodka at £20 and Flat Iron Steak with Chimichurri and fries at £30.
During my visit with fellow food journalist Ella Mapes, we skipped the tapas to sample these signature dishes. The wait for the pasta stretched to 30-35 minutes, puzzling given the simple dish and sparse clientele. Ella's steak arrived 10 minutes later, indicating poor coordination in the kitchen.
Food Quality and Value Assessment
Ed's Favourite-Rigatoni a la Vodka (£20): This pasta dish, devoid of meat, fish, or vegetables, was a major disappointment. While the pasta appeared fresh, it lacked depth of flavor and was swimming in sauce, which Ella compared to Heinz tomato soup. Presentation was poor, with a sparse sprinkling of grated cheese and wilted basil leaves. The excessive sauce made the pasta waterlogged and difficult to eat, earning it a modest four out of ten. At £20, it ranks among the worst restaurant dishes I've encountered.
Flat Iron Steak, Chimichurri, fries (£30): Requested medium rare, the steak arrived thoroughly cooked. The meat was somewhat tough, and the chimichurri tasted solely of parsley, making it bland. However, the generous portion offered reasonable value compared to the pasta. To improve flavor, we resorted to dipping the steak in the pasta sauce. Ella swapped her fries for a tomato salad, describing it as plump, sweet, and acidic—the best item on the menu, earning her meal a five out of ten overall.
Service and Overall Experience
Despite the food issues, service was excellent. Staff were attentive, responsive, and flexible throughout the meal. The restaurant's quirky decor includes a hidden shrine to Ed Sheeran, featuring personal photographs, vinyl records, his guitar, and books, which might appeal to die-hard fans.
Final Verdict
Bertie Blossoms doesn't suit my tastes, and I wouldn't revisit for a meal. However, on a bustling day, it might be worth a visit for drinks only. The restaurant capitalizes on Ed Sheeran's fanbase and London's tourist trade, but fails to deliver quality cuisine that justifies the high prices. For those curious, it's a niche spot for fans, but foodies should look elsewhere for value and flavor.
