January is upon us, and with it brings an advent of good intentions – but while many are ditching the booze for Dryathlon or embarking on a health kick, Redemption are one step ahead of the game, offering customers fad-free, healthy living, all-year- round.

Words: Janelle Butterfield

Brainchild of health aficionado Catherine Salway, Redemption started life as a pop-up dry bar in the Trellick Tower, before launching this, their first permanent branch in Chepstow Road, serving alcohol-free mocktails and a selection of meat, dairy and sugar-free dishes. With a Shoreditch outpost soon to follow and the restaurant packed to the rafters on a drizzly Tuesday night, it seems clean eating is firmly on the menu for Londoners.

First up, the drinks – I opt for a Flu Fighter, a zingy number packed with ginger and chilli, followed by the Coco-Rita; a combination of agave syrup, coconut water and lime, garnished with a salted rim – so tasty I almost don’t miss the tequila… My companion’s Apple Mock-jito and Elderflower and Lemon Fizz also slip down a treat.

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The Resident: Redemption Bar, Notting HillRedemption Bar, Notting Hill

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Food-wise the team have kept things simple, with a selection of fewer than ten dishes which can be shared or eaten as mains. We start with the vegan maki roll platter, a firm favourite, not least thanks to its beautiful presentation; an Instagrammers dream, each roll is packed with tasty avocado, mushrooms and quinoa. Side plates of the zucchini pesto ‘pasta’ and barley and mushroom risotto are wholesome and filling, although perhaps in need of a little more punch.

The star of the evening is the grilled aubergine with tahini and pomegranate seeds – moreish and entirely guilt-free; we could have polished off several rounds. With just enough space left for dessert, the sugar-free apple crumble and vanilla ice-cream was swiftly devoured, while we longingly eyed the impressive looking ‘cheesecake’ ordered by our fellow diners.

Although it might not be for everyone (dedicated carnivores need not apply), with a buzzing atmosphere and commitment to tasty, healthy treats, Redemption will no doubt be popular with those looking for a great night out, minus the regret. Proof that you CAN have your (sugar-free) cake and eat it.

Redemption Notting Hill, 6 Chepstow Road, W2 5BH, 020 7313 9041; redemptionbar.co.uk

THE KNOWLEDGE

COST
Dinner for two with drinks, around £50

GOOD FOR…
A catch up with friends, minus the hangover!

WHAT TO TRY…
The Coca-Rita, their alcohol-free take on a classic Margarita

WHAT TO KNOW…
As well as sourcing produce locally and organically, Redemption has a zero waste policy on all food