Last Updated on February 28, 2026
Gate Sip & Savour: Viajante 87 – Crafting Exquisite Cocktails in the Heart of Notting Hill
In the heart of Notting Hill, right next to the Gate cinema, tucked away behind an understated black door, hides an exclusive, cutting-edge cocktail bar which brings a touch of Mayfair to West London. The door takes you downstairs into the basement of what was once a thriving den of a nightclub that also hosted live bands, and which I used to frequent many years ago.
Now it’s a slicker, more stylish affair, with low lighting, central pillars, swishy banquettes, intimate corners, brass-topped tables and upholstered poofs. Along one side is a glistening bar where barmen Aldo and Simoe knock up some mean cocktails.
The bar reopened under Bar Director Pietro Collina and Brand Manager Veronica Di Pietrantonio in September. The team’s recent journeys to Latin America, have served as a rich source of inspiration. Viajante 87 uses a range of diverse alcohol, including ones specific to regions in Latin America like Pox and wine from the Ica Valley chardonnay. Their innovative approach involves the fusion of cocktails with natural, fresh flavours, employing experimental techniques that elevate the drinking experience. Beyond the mixology artistry, the establishment is dedicated to championing sustainable practices, aligning itself with the growing demand for eco-conscious dining experiences.
I went along with a friend on a cold November evening. It’s easy to find if you’re in the know but also equally easy to walk past, so do look out for the small gold signage. Opting for seats at the bar, we were warmly welcomed by Assistant Manager Joe who told us about their journey so far and invited us to try some of their innovative cocktails along with a few of their pan-Pacific-style bar snacks.
I had already been recommended to try their martinis, so without further ado, I ordered the Glacier Martini, served impeccably dry and chilled, this libation was a masterful blend of Apostoles gin, Barsol Perfecto Amor, Vermut Bianco, with a delightful hint of sweetness from the Plum I Suppose. Complementing the experience, a side note of complexity emerged with a subtly salty aftertaste courtesy of a smoked olive.
My friend’s Martini Malcriado was wonderfully unusual, well balanced and infused with a subtle touch of bitterness, made with Grey Goose Vodka, Lillet, Reisetbauer Karotte Eaux de Vie, and a delicious smoky addition of brown butter sage mescal and an elegant carrot veil garnish.
On the side some well-executed creamy guacamole served with crunchy tortilla chips and some crispy nuggets of sticky rice topped with perfectly spicy salmon tartare, a dash of chilli, soy and jalapeño. The Taco Maki were sublime, we delved into eager mouthfuls of soft baked crab, and velvety avocado, enriched with sweet notes of sweet buajillo soy topped with jewels of char roe, and fresh yellowfin tuna and avocado elevated by the bold and spicy flavours of the Gochujang aioli, jalapeño and coriander, both encapsulated in edible sesame paper.
Next, a Negroni Morada, a distinctive take on this classic featuring Boatyard Gin, Luxardo Bianco, Vermut, and Purple Potato. The Mole Manhattan elevated mixology to new heights with Lost Explorer Salmiana, Cocchi Vermouth Di Torino, Cynar, Criollo Oaxaca, and intriguing notes of sweet fig and nutty sesame.
A spicy margarita with mezcal was the perfect finale for the evening. My trip to Mexico earlier this year has cemented my love for this most delicious of drinks, enhanced by drops of green, red, or yellow pepper… My companion also kept up the Latin feel with a Paloma, a sharp and zesty combo of Ocho Blanco Tequila, Lime, Bitter Grapefruit Cordial, High Point, and Two Keys Grapefruit Soda.
Viajante 87 is a great addition to the Notting Hill landscape, so if you fancy fabulous cocktails in uber-cool, sexy surroundings, this is the place!
Address: 87 Notting Hill Gate, London W11 3JZ
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