18 Amazing Restaurants In Kensington
Date post added: 31st May 2025
What are the different types of restaurants in Kensington?
Oh Kensington, how swanky you are. One of London’s wealthiest borough’s, Kensington is home to royalty, nobility, and a few dinosaurs. And, as you’d expect from “the Royal Borough,” there’s a wealth of world-class cuisine to enjoy – from Michelin star fine dining restaurants to fast food takeaways.
Kensington is not only one of the swishest residential neighbourhoods in London (along with Mayfair and its neighbours, Chelsea and Knightsbridge), but it’s also one of the most cosmopolitan. Over 50% of Kensington residents were born abroad. So, if you venture into this corner of West London, you can expect everything from British pub grub to Persian, top-rated Italian fare to Lebanese mezze, cracking curry houses, European-style cafes and everything in between.
It’s hard to whittle them down, but these are our pick of the best restaurants in Kensington, selected by London Walks’ Kensington expert David Tucker. You can also listen to David’s podcast discussing his favourite Kensington restaurants.
What are the best places to eat in Kensington for a variety of cuisines?
1. Locanda Ottoemezzo, W8 5ET
Locanda Ottomezzo is named after Frederico Fellini’s 1963 cinematic masterpiece Otto e mezzo, meaning 8 ½. Stepping into this adorable restaurant is a little like stepping into your own Italian movie. Vintage movie posters, cosy seating, and a true taste of Italy. Sister restaurant to the Ottoemezzo Café, Locanda Ottomezzo is one of the most authentic Italian restaurants in London. It’s a hidden gem, tucked away in the heart of Kensington. And, it’s one of David’s favourite dining experiences.
2. The Orangery, W8 4PX
If you’re looking for elegant, refined surroundings in which to sip tea or a glass of Champagne, The Orangery serves up all that and more. Created for Queen Anne in 1704 (before she became queen), it’s a beautiful, light-filled space. Located next to Kensington Palace in Kensington Gardens, it’s the perfect location for an elegant lunch or indulgent afternoon tea. Walk ins are welcome, but it can get busy on a sunny day so it’s safer to book.
3. Chakra, W8 4LX
The refined, exquisite Chakra at Holland is bursting with authentic Indian flavours, beautiful decor and an al-fresco terrace. Promising ‘food for the soul’ which is uplifting and positively affects your wellbeing, Chakra’s won multiple awards and rave reviews from its customers. Look out for its own spice made with tequila, chilli and lemonade, naan bread cooked to perfection, and according to David, a butter chicken and Goan prawn curry that you absolutely must try.
Another incredible Indian restaurant in Kensington to try is the renowned Dishoom – Bombay comfort food at its finest. It’s a lively, fun place that pays tribute to Bombay’s jazz age in the 1940s.
4. Jacuzzi, W8 4SJ
Looking for a showstopping venue with the wow factor? Well, Jacuzzi on Kensington High Street brings 4 floors of dramatic interiors that are incredibly insta-worthy. There’s so much to take in and the decor’s a definite talking point. Head to the loo and you’ll find disco balls and tiles adorned with penises. We said there were talking points!
Their Italian food will also get you talking. The lobster and seafood risotto is luscious, and even the pizza’s offered with a truffle topping. But the lasting memory is the sight of the home-made mafaldine with creamy truffle sauce which is served in a huge pecorino wheel.
5. Akira at Japan House, W8 5SA
Authentic Japanese food beckons at Akira, situated on the first floor of Japan House, the cultural home of Japan in London. Based on Akira’s trinity of cooking principles; food, tableware and presentation, this Michelin starred restaurant is the place to experience a Japanese style afternoon tea with seasonal wagashi and sparkling sake. Watching the talented chefs cooking over robata flames (charcoal) is pure theatre.
Yashin Ocean House on Old Brompton Road is another amazing local Japanese restaurant.
6. The Scarsdale Tavern, W8 6HE.
What’s a ‘where to eat in Kensington’ guide without a proper British pub, and the Scarsdale in South Kensington is a belter. Located in Edwardes Square in all its late Georgian splendour, you can gaze upon the Scarsdale’s blinding good looks (it may well be the handsomest pub in London) or you can step inside for comfort food and ale on tap. We say comfort food, but it’s a bit more special than that sounds. Think asparagus that’s elevated with saffron, olives and macadamia nuts, or a classic American cheeseburger with the addition of bacon jam and/or smashed avo.
7. Ceru, SW7 3EY
As you open the doors to Ceru in South Ken, the scent of Eastern Mediterranean spices prick up your senses. You’re quickly transported to the Mediterranean coastline. This is an ideal place for a group. Order a selection of dishes that you can all dip into, share and enjoy. You’re literally breaking bread together, and their pitta bread is definitely worth breaking into and dunking into the wonderful hummus. There’s something for everyone. So many dishes are vegetarian, but there’s also Halal, gluten-free and vegan options.
8. Korean Grill Kensington, SW7 4LH
It’s always a special occasion at the Korean Grill. Each table has an in-built grill and servers flip and cook the meat beside you. It’s pretty dramatic to watch. Traditional Japanese Wagyu beef is even more special when it’s grilled at your table. Their signature dish, King Kalbi is sublime – diamond cut beef short rib with their house Korean Grill Kensington sauce. Vegans may be put off by the abundance of meat surrounding them, but a vegan menu is available too.
9. Ffiona’s, W8 4BA.
One of Kensington’s most important streets is Kensington Church Street, connecting Kensington to bohemian Notting Hill, and it’s here that you’ll find Ffiona’s. Their brunch is the stuff of legends, from a full English breakfast to French toast and fluffy buttermilk pancakes. It also serves one of the best Sunday roasts in Kensington. For dinner, the house speciality is the chicken Kiev, a free-range chicken breast stuffed with garlic butter and served on a pink peppercorn sauce. True to their ethos of being “inclusive not exclusive”, they offer plenty of dairy-free, gluten-free and vegan options too.
10. Churchill Arms Pub, W8 7LN.
Another Kensington Church Street diamond is the Churchill Arms Pub, known in London as much for its exterior festooned with flowers and hanging baskets – or Christmas trees and lights in December – as for its interior packed with WW2 memorabilia. It’s said that Winston Churchill’s grandparents frequented this pub, and Churchill’s legacy is very much on display at the Churchill Arms. As for the food, it’s Thai that’s on the menu here, from Pad Siew noodles to Kaeng Par curry.
11. Min Jiang, W8 4PT.
When Babylon at The Roof Gardens in Kensington closed its doors in 2018, many mourned its loss, not least for the stunning London skyline views. But fear not, occupying the 10th floor of the Royal Gardens Hotel, Chinese restaurant Min Jiang has some of the best views in Kensington, looking out over Kensington Gardens and London beyond. They’re known for their delectable wood-fired Beijing duck, prepared to an ancient Chinese recipe and presented in two servings, with both à la carte and dim sum menus.
12. Da Mario’s, SW7 4PP
Loved by Kensington locals and celebrities, Da Mario’s was Princess Diana’s favourite Italian restaurant when she lived up the road at Kensington Palace. The family-friendly trattoria was opened by Mr Mario Molino in 1965. His son Marco now runs the place. On a warm day, sit out on their al fresco terrace with their signature Aperol Spritz and a classic thin crust pizza. It may not be Napoli, but it feel pretty close.
13. Capote Y Toros, SW5 0LJ
Another Mediterranean gem in the heart of Kensington, Capote Y Toros is an absolute treasure. It’s an authentic Spanish taverna, that serves up the tastes of Cadiz. Tuck into their exquisite tapas and sample their range of sherries. There’s often live Spanish guitarists there to add to the vibrant atmosphere.
14. Bibendum, SW3 6RD
Bibendum on Fulham Road is located within the iconic Michelin House. It’s the epitome of laidback luxe – a perfect spot for ladies who lunch. Surrounded by impressive vintage tiling and vast windows, people tuck into huge platters of seafood. Oysters are the thing here. Not a fan of fruits de mer? There are some meaty or veggie options too, but seafood is their signature dish.
15. Montparnasse Café, W8 5ET.
Located in Thackeray Street, and styled on a traditional French café, this is the place to sit awhile at a pavement table with a croissant, coffee or a patisserie style treat. Dog friendly, the in house boulangerie makes the Montparnasse Café a winner for a lunchtime baguette or slice of homemade quiche. French street food at its best.
16. Kitchen W8, W8 6AH.
A Michelin starred eaterie in Kensington that achieves the relaxed neighbourhood vibe thanks to its tucked-away location and modern European style food, which is on show in abundance in the three course set menu for £49.50. Get ready for fine dining delights including peppered carpaccio of Roe deer, fillet of Cornish pollock and elderflower panna cotta.
17. Grato, W8 5EP.
A short stroll from the Royal Albert Hall and Hyde Park, and close to Gloucester Road, Grato in Kensington Square is a dog-friendly restaurant serving fresh, seasonal Italian fare. The prices, pretty reasonable for Kensington, are rather refreshing too! Choose to dine al fresco overlooking the oldest garden square in Kensington, upstairs in the beautiful eating quarter or downstairs in the private dining room (an excellent space for parties).
18. Cheneston’s at the Milestone Hotel, W8 5DL.
Taking its name for the Anglo-Saxon name for Kensington, Cheneston’s is within the 5-star Milestone Hotel opposite Kensington Palace. The building itself is a tour de force – dating back to 1883 it’s the frontispiece of the most beautiful “Conservation Area” in London (it’s got a brilliant cameo role on David’s Kensington Walk). Sophistication and elegance are the bywords at Cheneston’s. The decadent and award-winning Royal Afternoon Tea is an exceptional experience. The dining is all about fine, contemporary British cuisine. Don’t miss the smoked salmon platter from London’s oldest smokery in the east end.
Explore Kensington with our expert guides
If Kensington’s on your must-visit list, check out the Royal Kensington Walk, guided by David or Adam. Starting at 2pm on a Thursday and Saturday, they’re an ideal after brunch/lunch stroll or pre-dinner walk.
Don’t miss our inspiring list of things to do in Soho and the best restaurants in Hampstead. Plus, our 20 quirky restaurants to visit in London
David Tucker
David – the Seigneur of this favoured realm – broods over words, breeds enthusiasms and is “unmanageable.”* He’s a balterer, literary historian, university lecturer, journalist, logophile and lifelong thanatophobe. For good measure, he’s the doyen of London guides.
Pippa Jackson
Pippa is a word nerd and content aficionado with a background of working in TV on both sides of the globe. She loves to discover and share the diverse and wonderful stories of her much-loved London. When she’s not writing blogs and articles, you’ll find her walking beside the Thames or even paddleboarding on it (in the finest of conditions only!) or enjoying a coffee in the sunshine with a good book.