ZIMA Notting Hill, the newest outpost of the contemporary Eastern European restaurant brand, has announced the launch of a new seasonal chef collaboration series—beginning this June with acclaimed Russian chef Evgeny Vikentev. The partnership marks the first in an ongoing programme of guest residencies, each spotlighting a leading Eastern European chef offering a modern interpretation of the region’s rich culinary heritage.
From Thursday, June 26 to Sunday, June 29, Vikentev will host a series of intimate dining events, followed by the availability of his specially developed six-course tasting menu throughout July. Priced at £125 per person, the experience includes a tailored fine wine pairing and a house-made nastoyka vodka infusion, designed to complement the bold and delicate flavours of the menu.
Vikentev, a pioneer of modern Russian cuisine, rose to prominence after founding Hamlet + Jacks in St. Petersburg and later earning a Michelin star at Moscow’s Beluga. Trained in some of Europe’s most boundary-pushing kitchens—including Albert Adrià’s 41° in Barcelona and Il Vescovado in Liguria—he brings a refined, inventive approach to his dishes. His accolades include “Chef of the Year” and “Breakthrough of the Year” at Russia’s national Palm Awards. Now executive chef and co-owner of Italian gastro-bistro 150 Meters in St. Petersburg, Vikentev continues to expand his influence across Europe’s fine dining scene.
ZIMA’s new chef series aims to celebrate the breadth and evolution of Eastern European cuisine, introducing London diners to fresh perspectives on time-honoured ingredients and traditions through rotating collaborations.