You know what cocktails need more of? Turnip juice... said no one ever. But hear us out. What if we told you the turnip juice is accompanied by fermented black carrot and is served alongside kebabs? No? Then you haven’t had a Şalgam cocktail. This bonkers drink merges mezcal, lime, red pepper, pandan and turnip juice in a vibrant red concoction that’s a little sweet, a little smoky, intriguingly earthy and extremely tantalising. 

It's just one example of the supreme creativity coming out of the kitchens at The Counter, so-called 'cos it’s flying the flag for fireside "ocakbasi" Turkish counter dining. This is where you can order babaganoush with white chocolate and rose, or lamb liver skewers, or a bean salad which comes with the addition of a wobbling, raw egg yolk to stir in for sticky indulgence. Sometimes this kinda Willy Wonka approach can be a little OTT, but it works here. We were stacking up the plates 'cos we couldn’t stop ordering, and the cocktail list is just as enticing (another failsafe option is the after-dinner Kazandibi, with hazelnut fat-washed bourbon, salted caramel, orange bitters and cinnamon. Woof).

Not only that, but The Counter is on that vibey, popular stretch of Notting Hill known as Golborne Road. On the night we visited, the atmosphere was buzzing and cheerful, with an eclectic crowd. We sat in the window seat watching the world go by (also recommended: sitting at the counter watching the chefs at work) and soaked up the West London charm. Date night, mate night, rock up and celebrate night - we reckon you’ll be able to count on this place to deliver.