Maida Vale residents hit the jackpot when the owners of Notting Hill’s The Pelican chose this neighbourhood for the location of their third venture. The Hero is like a blueprint for how to sympathetically restore and update a pub, and has been understandably packed since Day One. The same menu and warm, buzzy atmosphere can be found across both floors, with traditional pub dishes at the heart – expect the likes of mince on toast, egg mayonnaise with smoked eel or a chicken and tarragon pie. Engaging service is the final touch on a wonderful experience.