Where to Eat in Kensington: The Neighbourhood’s 11 Best Restaurants

The Best Places to Eat in Kensington

Kitchen W8

11–13 Abingdon Road, W8

A quietly brilliant Michelin-starred restaurant beloved by locals, Kitchen W8 delivers modern European cooking under Chef Mark Kempson's considered approach, with dishes such as Cornish monkfish with lobster bisque or slow-cooked shoulder of lamb with heritage carrots. The room is low-lit and intimate, the service warm and precise, perfect for a smart dinner that never feels stuffy. At lunchtime, the set menu offers remarkable value and shows off the same finesse as the evening service.

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Launceston Place

1A Launceston Place, W8

Set on a residential street near Kensington Gardens, Launceston Place is an enduring classic. Executive chef Ben Murphy’s inventive menus combine French technique with bold, seasonal British ingredients. Expect dishes like smoked duck with pickled cherries or halibut with saffron beurre blanc. The handsome dining room, with dark wood floors and contemporary art, makes it ideal for a special night out. Sommeliers are on hand to suggest pairings from a thoughtful cellar that ranges from Burgundy to New World discoveries.

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Dishoom Kensington

4 Derry Street, W8

The iconic 1930s building, once a department store, pays affectionate homage to the old Irani cafés of Bombay at Dishoom Kensington. House black daal, cheese naan and ruby chicken are perennial favourites, while breakfasts of bacon naan rolls and spiced chai draw early birds. Bustling and atmospheric, it is as good for a lively dinner with friends as for a lip-smacking weekend brunch. The double-height atrium glows with pendant lights, creating an energy that feels celebratory from morning until late night.

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Clarke’s

124 Kensington Church Street, W8

A firm favourite on the scene since 1984, Sally Clarke’s restaurant embodies understated excellence. The daily changing menu is anchored in impeccable seasonal produce: think wild salmon with watercress or roast partridge with quince. Breads and pastries are baked next door in Clarke’s bakery, ensuring every detail feels carefully sourced and perfectly executed. Long-time regulars treasure the consistency, but the kitchen never stands still, with subtle new dishes each week keeping things fresh.

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Min Jiang

10th Floor, Royal Garden Hotel, W8

For panoramic views and superb Chinese cuisine, Min Jiang is hard to beat. The signature Beijing duck, served in two courses, is a showstopper, while dim sum lunches offer delicate parcels of flavour. Floor-to-ceiling windows overlook Kensington Gardens, making it as much a feast for the eyes as for the palate. A dedicated tea menu and elegant service give the meal a quiet sense of occasion.

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Akira at Japan House

101–111 Kensington High Street, W8

Akira brings meticulous Japanese cooking to the buzz of High Street Kensington. Sushi, sashimi and robata-grilled skewers are prepared with artistry and paired with premium sake. The sleek, wood-accented space feels both serene and contemporary, perfect for a quiet dinner or a long catch-up over expertly rolled maki. At the counter seats, you can watch chefs at work, an experience that feels as theatrical as it is exciting.

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Ffiona’s

51 Kensington Church Street, W8

A true neighbourhood find, Ffiona’s has been serving hearty Anglo-American comfort food for more than three decades. Brunch is a particular draw, with pancakes, eggs Benedict and homemade granola all on offer. Candlelight and vintage prints create a cosy, lived-in charm that keeps regulars coming back. On Friday and Saturday nights, the buzz from Kensington Church Street filters in, adding a cheerful energy to the room.

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Yashin Sushi

1A Argyll Road, W8

For sushi purists, Yashin is a revelation. The omakase tasting menu is a journey through pristine fish and nuanced flavours, from buttery toro to lightly smoked eel. With its minimalist aesthetic and quiet attention to detail, Yashin sets a benchmark for Japanese dining in London. A concise list of premium sakes and clean, balanced cocktails rounds out the experience.

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Il Portico

277 Kensington High Street, W8

One of the capital’s oldest family-run Italian restaurants, Il Portico combines genuine warmth with robust, regional cooking. The menu spans handmade pastas, slow-cooked meats and excellent seafood. Walls lined with family photographs give the feeling of dining in someone’s elegant home, adding to its enduring popularity. Seasonal specials, from white truffle risotto to Venetian-style seafood stews, keep the menu enticing for long-time regulars.

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Jak’s

77 Walton Street, SW3 (near Kensington)

For something more laid-back, Jak’s offers a bohemian, all-day space with a Mediterranean-leaning menu. Wood-fired pizzas, fresh salads and small plates pair easily with cocktails or a good glass of wine. It is equally suited to a quick post-shopping refuel or a leisurely evening with friends. Outdoor tables along Walton Street make it particularly appealing on a warm evening.

Thali

166 Old Brompton Road, SW5

This welcoming Indian restaurant is a short stroll from Kensington proper and rewards the journey. Fragrant curries, tandoori grills and delicate vegetarian dishes are served in a chic, softly lit room. The signature thali platter, offering a variety of small dishes, is perfect for sharing. Knowledgeable staff are happy to guide diners through spice levels and wine matches, ensuring each visit feels personal.