The Best Restaurants in High Street Kensington

As if you didn’t know already, Kensington has a lot to offer. From the traditional architecture and museums at every turn to bespoke boutiques with one-of-a-kind offerings on show, a lot is going on in this buzzing borough of the nation’s capital.

But, aside from all the hustle and bustle of work-life and shopping, High Street Kensington has something else equally impressive to experience – the food.

Whether you fancy Japanese Indian, Italian or a uniquely traditional English Roast Dinner, you can be sure that there will be something delicious to satisfy those taste buds on Kensington High Street.

Kitchen W8, 11-13 Abingdon Road, W8 6AH

Located just off Kensington High Street but still a part of the London W8 postcode, this modern European style restaurant is a great place to visit, whatever the occasion.

The food theme at Kitchen W8 is modern with a blend of some of the best British and French cuisines London has to offer. Dishes have all been carefully created by some of the finest chefs in the capital and will almost certainly leave you wanting more.

Some of the restaurant’s speciality dishes include Fillet of Cornish Hake and Caramelised Parmesan Gnocchi. There’s also a Chocolate Panna Cotta on the dessert menu, which is truly sensational.

Just be aware that, as with many restaurants, seasonal changes are made to the menu, providing diners with more light and simple dishes in the warmer months and more hearty dishes throughout the winter. Either way, whenever you visit there’s bound to be something for everyone to enjoy.

In addition to their standard A La Carte menu, they also do a pretty expansive tasting menu. Ingredients are all sourced from a list of trusted suppliers, and despite their one Michelin star status, the prices here are very reasonable.

The decor inside Kitchen W8 is of high quality, creating a more intimate ambience than buzzing. Its clientele is those of the more distinguished sort, so don’t be too surprised if you see a celebrity or two. Many A-listers have been known to dine here, including Giorgio Armani, Tom Cruise, and David Cameron.

Zuaya London, 35B Kensington High St, W8 5EB

Situated in the heart of Kensington High Street, Zuaya is a modern and exotic Latin American dining experience, offering diners a feast like no other.

The menu at Zuaya is somewhat ambitious, with creations that will both surprise and amaze. If you’re in the mood for some seafood, the grilled octopus with sweet baked potato is a popular choice. Or, for something a little succulent, there’s a good selection of meat tapas to choose from.

Prices are extremely reasonable for a restaurant of this calibre, with a steak lunch on offer during the week for just £14.50. There is a good selection of cocktails, beers, and spirits to cleanse the palate with too.

One of the great things about this restaurant is that it’s open all day, every day of the week, from 12 noon. So, whether you’re in the area for brunch, lunch, or dinner, there’s no excuse to miss out.

Another of the restaurant’s notable selling points is the ambience. Every time you step foot in Zuaya, you instantly realise how it has gained the reputation that it has. The atmosphere is always fun and lively, thanks to the resident DJ on hand, while the decor is full of class and grandeur.

Zuaya is spread across several levels, with each space offering its own take of the fantastic landscapes tropical Latin America has to offer. In the downstairs area, you can relax in the comfort of plush velvet chairs within private curtained booths. Or, why not head up to the beautiful alfresco terrace to sit and enjoy a cocktail or two while watching the sun go down.

Maggie Jones’s Restaurant, 6 Old Court Place, W8 4PL

Maggie Jones is an old-fashioned-style food spot that’s tucked away in a quiet little cul-de-sac just off Kensington High Street.

This restaurant is a great place to visit for anyone looking for a quirky place to grab a bite to eat. Everywhere you turn, you’ll see various antique trinkets of days gone by on the walls, windows, and tables, giving it a real traditional and homely feel. There are high-backed antique pews and numerous dried flowers, and dripping candles adding to the old-time decor.

It’s not just the decor that’s vintage, either. Maggie Jones’s regular menu is full of old-time classic British dishes, including calf’s liver with bacon, homemade steak and kidney pie, and everybody’s favourite,’ sausage and mash. They also offer a Sunday Lunch menu with no less than six excellent mains to choose from.

Another massive bonus for any budding sommeliers out there is the restaurant’s extensive wine list. From red to white to rose to Prosecco, the choice is yours. Of course, prices here are what you’d expect for London as opposed to that of an old-time cafe, with a two-course meal from the set menu priced at £22. Remember, you’re paying for the experience and ambience as much as the food, and that’s worth its weight in gold.

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The Ivy Kensington Brasserie, 96 Kensington High Street, W8 4SG

Lying in a prime location, among some of the finest establishments in west London, sits a very well-known fine dining restaurant – The Ivy Kensington Brasserie.

While this particular branch of The Ivy may not be the swankiest of the Ivy restaurant clan, its ambience and decor certainly do not disappoint. From the moment you walk in, you are surrounded by luxury and trendiness. With ornate dark-wood and brass styling, teamed with unique Victorian artwork, the Ivy Kensington Brasserie is pure bliss. Large spherical lights in true art deco style hang from the ceiling, while white linen tablecloths give the restaurant its classic vibe.

The food here is simply divine, with an extensive all-day a la carte menu that caters to even the fussiest of eaters. Everything on the menu has been created by a very talented head chef, using only the finest and freshest ingredients.

Some of the most famous and fabulous ensembles include Lobster Linguine and the Monkfish, and Prawn Curry. At the same time, old favourites such as Steak Tartare and The Ivy’s Shepherd’s Pie are also top-rated. And if you are staying for pudding, be sure to try the Rum Baba – you will not be disappointed. Or, if you happen to stop by in-between meals, why not try the Classic Ivy afternoon tea for just over £20 per person.

All-in-all, the Ivy Kensington Brasseries is the perfect setting for just about anyone wanting to grab a bite to eat. It’s classic, offers a wide range of tasty treats, and is just around the corner from Notting Hill Gate station, so it is very easy to get to and from.

Balans, 187 Kensington High Street, W8 6SH

Sitting charmingly on Kensington High Street, just around the corner from the beautiful Kensington Gardens, lies another of London’s most renowned restaurants – Balans.

The first-ever Balans opened on Old Compton Street back in 1987. Now, the chain has a total of 5 establishments under its belt, including this fantastic venue situated on Kensington High Street. This particular branch has a very homely feel, with hardwood floors and leather armchairs to match.

While you may see a different menu depending on the branch you visit, all restaurants follow the same food theme, primarily focusing on classic and modern British comfort foods. Some of the most popular dishes devoured at the Kensington location include all-day brunch foods such as French Toast and Eggs Benedict. Or, if you’re there for the evening, both the Chicken enchiladas and the seared Salmon Fillet are great choices.

Another aspect that has guests flocking to Balans is their extensive cocktail offerings. In addition to all your favourite tipples, such as the classic Margarita, Mojito, and Old Fashioned, are several more creative boozy concoctions, including Forbidden Fruit, Strawberry Refresher, and Paddy’s Tropical Retreat.

Balans isn’t what many would consider “high-end”, but more of a cosy yet charming establishment with a fun and funky vibe. Featuring cool, contemporary decor, it’s a place suitable for people of all tastes and is a great place to let your hair down at the end of the week.

These London restaurants are some of the best the city has to offer. Not only do they offer some of the most refined foods cooked by the most talented head chefs but also provide a uniquely enjoyable dining experience.

So, the next time you’re in Soho shopping, visiting friends in Chelsea or enjoying a performance at the Royal Albert Hall, be sure to pop down the road to experience one of the best restaurants in High Street Kensington.

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