Dining in style at One Kensington
One Kensington, which has only recently opened (March 24th, 2014) is situated in one of the most enviable spots of London – just opposite the beautiful Kensington Palace Gardens… so, a rubbish view then.
It is the latest addition in the Tamarind Collection restaurant group, which already boasts the Tamarind of Mayfair, Imli Street in Soho and Tamarind London, based out in sunny California. (I can’t say that word without hearing Joni Mitchell in my ears…love that song.)
For this, their fourth restaurant, they have cleverly managed to nab one of the hottest chefs about town, Massimiliano Blasone. This clever Michelin Star waving chap was previously the chef at the Malibu beachfront hotel, ‘Nikita‘ and before that, at Apsleys at The Lanesborough.
So, I knew we were in for a treat…
First things first. I propped myself up at the impressive long bar, while I waited for Lovely Man to get there. I poured over the extensive cocktail menu and eventually landed upon the Russian Spring Punch; Absolut Elyx, crème de cassis, fresh raspberries, lemon juice cane syrup and topped with Champagne. Hokay!
I nibbled delicious olives, while I watched the master at work – bottles were moving about incredibly quickly, but with charm, an ease and an elegance. And a big smile too.
One Kensington is extremely glamourous.. yet extremely relaxed. It has a sense of luxurious ease about it, and a calmness, which makes you feel that you are somewhere very special indeed…
The restaurant is housed in a grade II listed building at number One Kensington High Street. The building was originally home to The London & County Bank in 1885 and there are clever design nods to this throughout the restaurant.
Many of the original features remain and have been lovingly restored, such as the rich wood panelled walls… and if you look carefully, you may even be able to find the old wall safe that still exists, made by the Tann family, who are renowned as the best safe builders of that time. It is big and locked and very old looking. Very exciting. Very Goonies.
Lovely Man arrived and we were whisked over to our table as quick as a flash. No dilly dallying here. Nope. We were hungry.
The food was exquisite. Which is unsurprising, given who created it. I wouldn’t be surprised if Michelin Star was shooting through the sky in One Kensington’s direction at this very moment…
One Kensington, in its own words ‘combines seriousness about cuisine and design with a sense of adventure. It is luxurious playground for Londoners and tourists alike to enjoy the history, diversity and cosmopolitan nature of undoubtedly one of the best cities in the world.’
And if you weren’t already sold, here are the desserts. It’s a wonder I ever left. I could live there. I think I might. No one would notice me. I’m only little.
(Although, I was littler prior to this trio of amazingness…)
Dining at One Kensington really is a very wonderful experience. I, as you know, am not in any way a qualified food critic.. but I do know something special when I see it.
And this is it.
Something special.
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One Kensington
No1 Kensington High Street
London, W8 5NP
Beccy
Such lovely photos – it all looks absolutely delicious. Those puddings!
Beccy // Bluebell & Bumpkin
Poppy Loves
Thank you Beccy! Those puddings were ridiculously good 😉
Sarah
Oh my goodness, those desserts look scrumptious. I am very hungry after reading this!x
Poppy Loves
Me too Sarah! I want to go back now!
Zoelee
Looks amazing! Yet another one to add to my list!
Poppy Loves
You’ll love it Zoelee – please do let me know if you pay them a visit, I’d love to hear about it…
charlotte carter
Looks delightful, pictures are gorgeous! http://tastingtheworldwithme.blogspot.co.uk/ xo