Ah, food glorious food! It’s no secret that we’re a bunch of foodies here at The Harrington and truth be told, there are SO many fantastic places to eat in South Kensington. So, no matter what haute cuisine you desire during your stay, we can recommend some scrumptious hot spots that will leave those taste buds lingering for days…
1. Kitchen W8
If European flavour is your preference, then this High Street Kensington restaurant will not disappoint. The menu from Head Chef Mark Kempson showcases British cooking with a French soul. The luxurious 70-seat establishment has held a Michelin-star since 2011 and is a firm favourite in the neighbourhood. What’s even more exciting is that it’s celebrating its 10th anniversary this summer. Kitchen W8 went through a re-design in 2018 which now includes the introduction of a new private dining room at the front of the restaurant, accommodation up to 14 guests.
The restaurant has a ‘Bring Your Own’ wine offer on Sunday nights, which is too good to miss, including no corkage fee (charged at £25 per bottle during the week when requested upon booking).
2. Alexandrie
If you’re feeling like Egyptian cuisine then head on over to Alexandrie for a chic fine dining experience with influences from France, Italy and Greece. Why not try a seven-course tasting menu or one of their speciality dishes such as Molokheya, a traditional Eqyptian herb soup served with rice or maybe give their slow-roasted tender shank of lamb a whirl. Vegan menus are also available on request.
Happy hour takes place from 18:00-19:00 and free mezzes are given with your first drink. Only one thing to note is that they’re closed on Mondays.
3. Squirrel
If you’re nuts about health, then Squirrel is the place for you. If you’re an early riser, why not skip down the road to and enjoy their nourishing fresh produce. It’s the perfect spot for breakfast, lunch and dinner especially if you’re on the go. Their lunch offering features delicious salads and hearty grain bowls and their sweet treats are brain-boosting.
The interior resembles a treehouse and is a fun bright vibrant hangout. All of Squirrel’s staff are trained in basic nutrition so can advise customers on which food or drink should be consumed to support their goals such as increased energy levels or recovery after a tough gym session.
4. The Wright Brothers
Right at the heart of some of London’s most iconic galleries and museums, the intimate dining room at Wright Brothers South Kensington is inspired by the local bistros of Paris with a classic yet modern feel. Feast on deluxe seasonal fish and shellfish sourced from their very own wholesale team at Billingsgate and Brixham markets. A hotspot for locals and visitors alike, the menu focusses on simplicity and flavour alongside a daily-changing specials board.
Enjoy oysters for just £1 a pop between 3-6pm every day, or opt for their delicious set menu, available from Monday to Friday between 12-5pm. Boasting an exclusive basement bar, The Mermaid opens Wednesday to Saturday from 5pm and offers an extensive drinks list in a cosy setting. While the emphasis is on wines and cocktails, guests can also choose to dine from the à la carte menu, making this the perfect spot for a romantic dinner, family get together or gatherings of up to 30 guests.
5. Sticky Fingers
Sticky Fingers is the perfect place to celebrate good times with family and friends. With loaded American favourites and pure rock’n’roll, they love to serve up juicy stacks of ribs, an electrifying variety of stacked burgers, sizzling fajitas, chicken wings as well as a dessert menu that will rock your world!
The restaurant is owned by English musician Bill Wyman who was the bass guitarist for the Rolling Stones from 1962 until 1993. The restaurant is draped in rock and roll memorabilia from the Rolling Stones. The restaurant is most popular with tourists and fans. What’s not to love?
6. Ceru
Ever tried Levantine food? Perhaps you’re wondering what the heck we’re talking about? Levantine food is food from the Levant – a place you’ll find in the heart of the Middle East. It’s a melting pot of flavours and a region of shared plates. But don’t worry, you won’t need to go all the way to the southeast corner of the Mediterranean to taste these exquisite flavours, instead, you can walk down the road and visit Ceru, a beautiful Levantine restaurant in South Kensington.
Staple ingredients of Levantine food include chickpeas, tahini, halloumi, aubergine, peppers, olives, pomegranate and lemon to name a few. They’ve just released a new summer menu which features seasonal asparagus, sticky chicken wings, roast aubergine in a supremely rich date and soy sauce and homemade ice-cream with a twist.
7. The Havelock Tavern
You can’t come to London and not frequent a decent gastropub. Well don’t worry, we’ve got you covered as the Havelock Tavern is one of London’s originals. This is a pub that focuses on serving really great food. It’s an informal setting so you can wind down here with a cold crisp pint and some fantastic grub or if you just fancy popping in for a few evening drinks, that’s very much welcomed too.
The menu changes daily so you’re guaranteed to indulge in the freshest, most seasonal produce available. These guys also bake their own bread on-site, so you’re guaranteed some sensational aromas. The establishment does not play any music, so the sounds and atmosphere are provided by guests!
If that’s got you salivating for a taste of South Kensington, check out these incredible superfood cafes in London!
Written by Jenny Conlon