Seemor
Speedboat Bar at The ElectricB+Worth Trying
191 Portobello Rd, London W11 2ED
· Thai restaurant, Restaurant
· 4.4/5 Google (58 reviews)
Reservations · Outdoor seating
Lively Thai diner vibe with bold, often very spicy cooking and warm service; tasty but pricey with smaller portions and some saltiness complaints.
Why it gets a B+ for overall quality
Speedboat Bar delivers bold, vibrant Thai cooking with standout noodles and crispy preparations, backed by warm, attentive service that guides diners through spice levels and menu choices. However, inconsistent seasoning and occasional dryness prevent higher grades, while tight seating and small portions at premium pricing limit appeal beyond its energetic Portobello scene. Worth visiting for the punchy flavors and lively atmosphere, but not a destination-level establishment.
Restaurant Summary
The room feels buzzy and retro, a Thai diner vibe with an open kitchen and bar seats facing the action. Staff come off warm and switched on, with comments like, "They talked us through spice levels and checked in just enough." However, there are some review authenticity concerns suggesting certain reviews may be solicited or influenced. Expect an energetic crowd and quick pacing rather than a long, lingering supper. The cooking is a bold, street-influenced take on Thai flavors: rich, spicy broths, wok-charred noodles, crispy pork, and lively salads. Dishes land big on heat and acidity, sometimes too salty for some palates, but often memorable. Portions run on the smaller side and the prices reflect a polished Portobello concept more than a budget noodle shop. If you enjoy punchy, shareable plates and a fun scene, it works well; those seeking classic comfort or subtlety should choose carefully. Families will appreciate the casual setting, but spice and intensity can be challenging for cautious eaters. Safer picks include rice, wide soy-sauce noodles, and sweetcorn fritters, with dessert favorites like pineapple pie and mango pudding. There is a vegetarian section, but gluten-free options are limited; confirm details with staff to avoid surprises.
At a Glance
- Big, vibrant Thai flavors with standout noodles and salads
- Friendly, knowledgeable service with helpful spice guidance
- Portions are small for the price; expect to share multiple dishes
- Seasoning skews salty for some; heat levels can be intense
- Creative/fusion menu - not traditional comfort food
What Sets It Apart
- Thai diner energy on Portobello Road
- Signature spicy noodle soups
- Knowledgeable, personable servers
- Open-kitchen bar seating
What People Love
- The lively, transportive vibe
- Crispy pork and wide rice noodles
- Desserts like pineapple pie with taro ice cream
- Staff who guide spice and recommend well
Points of Concern
- Pricing is genuinely expensive (many mains £14-22, signatures to £29) plus 14.5% service
- Portions run small; one dish plus a side may not satisfy
- Seasoning can be very salty; heat levels can overwhelm
- Review patterns show signs of potential manipulation (high five-star share, many staff name mentions) which may not reflect typical diner experience
- Limited options for conservative palates or picky eaters
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost£42-58 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- For milder choices: Wide Rice Noodles with Vegetables (£14) or Morning Glory with Soybean Sauce (£10) plus rice (£4)
- Balance spicy curries with plain rice and a sweet dessert
- Vegetarian diners: consider Exploded Tofu, Taro & Shimeji Curry (£15) and Sweetcorn Fritters (£9)
Perfect For
- Spice lovers chasing bold Thai flavors
- A lively night with friends at the bar
- Solo diners who enjoy counter seating
- Pre-cinema bites with drinks
Location Insights
Area: Trendy market corridor with heavy footfall; mix of locals, shoppers, and visitors; lively evenings.
Safety: Generally safe, busy streets and good lighting; typical central London crowds.
Nearby: Adjacent to Portobello Road Market retail, cafes, and bars; cinema complex context at The Electric.
Notting HillNotting Hill is a fashionable and cosmopolitan neighborhood famous for its colorful houses, the Portobello Road Market, and a diverse dining scene ranging from casual cafes to upscale restaurants. The area attracts a mix of locals and tourists, creating a lively yet sophisticated social atmosphere with a strong emphasis on independent shops and gourmet food.
Portobello RoadPortobello Road is a bustling micro-neighborhood centered around the famous market, known for antiques, street food, and eclectic dining options. It has a vibrant, energetic vibe during market days, drawing a diverse crowd interested in unique culinary experiences and vintage shopping.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday12:00–23:00
Tuesday12:00–23:00
Wednesday12:00–23:00
Thursday12:00–23:00
Friday12:00–01:00
Saturday12:00–01:00
Sunday12:00–23:00
Available: Reservations, Outdoor seating
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