Planning a London trip may bring to mind Big Ben, Buckingham Palace and the British Museum, but sometimes the most memorable moments of a stay happen around the table. A beautiful lunch in a hidden garden, a cozy pub supper or an unforgettable neighborhood dinner can be every bit as much a part of the experience as the landmarks on your itinerary.
To help you find those special dining spots, we turned to our friend Stephanie Brookes, food writer, restaurant reviewer and someone we always trust for London restaurant inspiration. You may remember Stephanie from our interview on the best of London’s culinary scene, and this time she’s sharing a few Kensington favorites that London Perfect guests will love.
From a newly reopened classic with royal connections to a beautiful garden restaurant, a family-run Italian favorite and a beloved neighborhood pub, these are four Kensington restaurants to add to your next London stay.
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Here are Stephanie’s Kensington favorites, with the dishes she loves and the details that make each one so special:
Maggie Jones’s
The newly reopened Maggie Jones’s has been a stalwart of the Kensington area for well over 40 years. This classic restaurant was even a favorite of royalty, and Princess Margaret was a regular! You’ll find traditional, cozy dishes with ample portions, too. A must-try is the Stilton mousse or Maggie’s onion tart, followed by one of the delicious homemade pies. I highly recommend the hearty chicken and artichoke pie. Leave room for the decadent chocolate pot dessert or the comforting bread and butter pudding. It’s a magical place and still feels like an undiscovered gem.
Where: Maggie Jones’s, 6 Old Court Place, just off Kensington High Street and Kensington Church Street.
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Pippin’s
Lunch in one of London’s most peaceful hidden gardens is the perfect way to enjoy summer, I think. I love Pippin’s for its fresh, seasonal menus. Best of all, the garden is open year-round, and it feels like dining in your own private grounds. Favorites include the poached salmon fillet with pickled cucumber, courgette and garden pea fritter, and the decadently creamy matcha Basque cheesecake. They also offer a delicious afternoon tea, all set amid beautiful garden blooms.
Where: Pippin’s at Templeton Garden, 1–15 Templeton Place, near Earl’s Court.
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Il Portico
Sensational Italian cuisine located along iconic Kensington High Street – what could be better? If you’re looking for pasta made from scratch, Il Portico is the reservation to make. This family-run restaurant is a legend in local circles, with quality and seasonality at the fore. To start, try the Norfolk asparagus alla parmigiana, grilled calamari, oyster mushrooms and chili. Then move on to the gorgeous pastas: agnolotti of braised fallow deer shoulder with butter, sage and Parmigiano, or the classic spaghettini alle vongole. The wine list is also excellent.
Where: Il Portico, 277 Kensington High Street.
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The Scarsdale Tavern
One of Kensington’s most beloved pubs, and a personal favorite of mine. Located along one of London’s finest streets, The Scarsdale Tavern is a true local favorite. There’s ample seating outside to enjoy a classic fish and chips supper, paired with a traditional ale. They also offer a wonderful shoulder of lamb with sautéed kale and redcurrant jelly, braised beef and ale shortcrust pie, and the classic Sunday roast dinner. It’s always a buzzing atmosphere in the summer, and you’ll also possibly see a celeb or two!
Where: The Scarsdale Tavern, 23a Edwardes Square, just off Kensington High Street.
Many thanks to Stephanie for sharing these Kensington favorites with us – we certainly know where we’ll be dining soon! Want to enjoy the best of London’s culinary scene but not sure where to start? Follow Stephanie on Instagram @stephaniebrookeslondon for even more tempting ideas. And for your next trip, Stephanie’s Plate & Place Restaurant Recommendation Service is an incredible resource for personalized suggestions, whether you’re looking for a special dinner, a local restaurant you won’t want to miss or the perfect place to celebrate during your London stay.
