The Old White Bear, Hampstead, NW3

Out with ye olde and in with the new……. Tucked away in the village backstreets of Hampstead, The Old White Bear (formerly Ye Olde White Bear) will open its doors again on Friday March 12th, following a much deserved renovation. This second venture from restaurateur Jasper Gorst, proprietor of The Oak in Notting Hill, is a welcoming retreat throughout the day for local residents and beyond. The inside interior has been replaced with 19th century handmade English pine dressers, tables and fireplaces. Sections of the floor and tables are covered in vibrant rustic tiles imported from northern France and the whole look reflects a warm rustic European/English feel eluding any signs of snobbery. Using only the finest and freshest local ingredients, the smart yet relaxed dining area offers imaginative French, Spanish and Italian classics with an eclectic twist to bring the wonderful flavours of Europe to Hampstead. The lunch menu is varied and colourful and offers back to basics fare including seasonal soup of the day and venison ravioli, pecorino and thyme. There is a good selection of vegetarian treats too, such as vegetable antipasti with grilled marinated aubergine, courgette, peppers and globe artichoke. The evening à la carte menu covers dishes such as roasted seabass and pepper stew, char-grilled tuna with mixed leaves as well as appetising vegetarian choices. Puddings include the ever popular crème brulée, a selection of cheeses and classics such as chocolate brownie. All the usual drinks are served as well as a choice of guest ales on tap and a wine list to suit all budgets and palettes which can be enjoyed at cosy bay windows, the bar, or at tables outside (in the summer). The drinks menu is also a reflection of the classic European inspiration with a range of French, Spanish and Italian to complement the lunch and dinner menu. The Old White Bear serve food seven days a week and offer traditional roasts on Sundays and for special occasions there is a private dining area upstairs for hire that seat up to 14 guests. The Old White Bear sits just a brisk 5 minute stroll from Hampstead tube and offers a warm welcome to local businesses, singletons, couples, families and pub-goers. Set to be as popular as its outpost in Notting Hill, The Old White Bear is a welcome addition to Hampstead’s dining scene and plans not to disappoint.