Nestled opposite Kensington Palace’s north entrance in Notting Hill, there’s a very peculiar café. And its location plays a huge role in its story.
Named Café Diana after the late Princess, this small eatery has become a real gem in the neighbourhood. Since its opening in 1989, it has attracted thousands of visitors – some more special than others.
Until her passing, Lady Di was in fact a frequent guest and supporter. She often came with her two sons for coffee and breakfast, and thought highly of the establishment.
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Owner Abdul Basit hadn’t originally planned to dedicate his venue to the princess. But after spotting her by chance with Prince William and Prince Harry on their way out of the palace, the name of the café was decided.
Shortly after its launch, Princess Diana came to see the place and ordered a cappuccino. On her next visit, the Iraqi-born entrepreneur asked her if he could put a photo of her on the wall, which she accepted and on her third visit, she brought an autographed portrait.
Since then, the walls have been filled with dozens of photos of Lady Di, royal correspondence and other framed memorabilia, with only a few spots left bare. And when you step inside, it’s like being transported to a whole new world.
As a French national, I’ve never felt much connection with the British monarchy, let alone the late Princess of Wales, who died a few years before I was born. That’s why eating there, surrounded by so many portraits, felt rather surreal.
Faced with so many pairs of eyes, you feel observed from all sides whichever way you’re sitting. But it’s also weirdly touching, as if the people’s princess’ comforting energy emanated from the photos.
Café Diana serves a combination of Middle Eastern and British cuisines, including English breakfast, omelettes, sandwiches, kebabs and burgers. A special section of the menu called ‘Diana’s Dishes’ features fish & chips, grilled chicken steaks, burgers and jacket potatoes.
Being in a restaurant dedicated to the late royal, I had to choose one of ‘her’ dishes, so I opted for Diana’s Cheeseburger. With so many items on the menu, I was unsure of what quality to expect.
But it was surprisingly good, especially for the £8.95 I paid. The fries were crisp, the bun was soft on the inside but crunchy on the outside, and the other well-cooked ingredients were far from dry.
There are also cheaper options, like the cold and hot sandwiches starting from just £4. And judging by the satisfied reactions of the customers around me, they taste good too.
Café Diana is located at 5 Wellington Terrace, London W2 4LW.
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