During the 1990s, the Prince Bonaparte was THE pub for celebrities in Notting Hill, and its fine Regency styling still attracts both the well-heeled and the arty types. Following a refurbishment in 2003, the Boney has now become a gastropub, joining a trendy group of old watering holes that now serve good food on big white plates. Luckily, the locals and the goodtime crowd prevent it from becoming a drinking desert during the week; locals come because they can’t be bothered to cook, while a younger crowd meets to chat, drink and generally make the place lively. The food is comfortably familiar; fish and chips and bangers and mash are among the best sellers, plus a very popular Sunday roast. The specials board offers some more exotic tastes, such as duck with carrot and ginger, or you can experiment with some of the range of beers on offer. There is also a reasonable wine selection for those who prefer their drinks not to foam at the top. At the weekends, the Boney is more likely to be filled with “look at me” crowds, and the music belts out at high volume. However, the décor is looking tired, especially the couches, and the general air of “this place is not what it was” is boosted by a high quota of unenthusiastic staff.