Strega & Sparkles Elite Event @ Valentina!

Last night saw the London Elites make their way to a part of town made (even more) famous by Hugh Grant and Julia Roberts' classic love story, Notting Hill. Yes, the home of the renowned Portobello Market was alive with the sound of yelping as the first of our two spectacular December Elite Events kicked off in style.

Situated neatly on Notting Hill Gate and sharing the corner of Campden Hill Road, Valentina makes her presence known with her distinctive and stylish blue and white signature colours. Flying the flag for excellence and proudly standing independent on the bustling high street. This family run authentic Italian delicatessen, restaurant and shop, aim to 'provide the best store cupboard essentials and Italian regional specialities, as well as serving recipe dishes that have been handed down through their own families for generations.'

On arrival the yelpers were treated to a Prosecco reception, which was followed by wines that were palate-enlivening! William did a wonderful job making sure there wasn't an empty glass in the house - grazie William!

As the wine flowed, so did the treats and goodies from the deli and restaurant: cheeses, hams, breads, chicken and olive oil which is pressed from the family olive groves no less! And to wash it all down, there was of course more wine! 

The yummy Antonio handmade us equally delightful hors d'œuvres. The breadsticks wrapped in Panchetta, and the Asiago cheese laid on a thin bread bed drizzled with truffle oil, were both big hits!

The care and attention that was taken was evident, and could be seen in all areas of Valentina. From the Vespas hanging on the walls, to the hand selected wines - which can be purchased from the shop, and for a small corkage, enjoyed with a meal in the restaurant - table for two please!

Up next, we were really spoilt with the sampling of the acclaimed Panettone, which was awarded second place in the Guardian Panettone Christmas Taste Test 2011. Needless to say, it ranked 1st place with the Elites!

After all that sampling some of the elites just had to do a spot of shopping and take some of the delights home. Tisha B opted for a huge Christmas hamper, while Lauren V couldn't leave without some of the beautiful pastries. Looking at the shelves, the London Elites will be feasting on Valentina food and drink for a while!

Antonio, Andre, William, Laura and the whole Valentina team were simply amazing and the night was truly filled with Stars and Sparkles.

A big thanks to you all and to the skilful hand and eye of Phil who captured it all. Check out the photos and peruse his handiwork. Read the reviews and come and talk about what happened the morning after the night before!

SYOY

Josephine B and the London Yelp Team