Kensington Square Kitchen

Owner and head chef Sara Adams has transformed this former Italian restaurant into a chic little hideaway off Kensington High Street. Without the chaos of Kensington’s main drag, this little find is the perfect way to escape the traffic, shoppers and fashionistas.

The feel of the place has been heavily influenced by Adams’ own experience of Sydney and California. The walls are dressed in paired down tones, and there’s a stylish but relaxed atmosphere to the restaurant, which is open for all day dining, closing up between five and six in the evening.

Breakfast includes the likes of chopped fruit, granola, boiled eggs, American pancakes, English breakfast and even home cooked sausage rolls. So you really are spoiled for choice. If mornings are not your thing, then the brunch menu may win your affections. We went for the fresh-tasting smoked mackerel pate with sourdough, and the chicken, leek and grainy mustard pie. The pie was hearty but not heavy, which is ideal when the cold starts creeping in and you need to keep your stomach warm, without that post-lunch energy slump.

All sorts seem to tread the boards here – locals, office workers in the know and families. The muffins are apparently to die for, which is why little fingers are big fans of breakfast time at Kensington Square Kitchen. For a genuine verdict, you’ll have to trek down to the restaurant and find out for yourself, as all those little fingers had craftily beaten us to it on the day we turned up. Watch this space for a dinner slot appearing on the menu, as there is talk of Kensington Square Kitchen opening for evening meals in the New Year (2008).

Kensington Square Kitchen: No. 9, Kensington Square, London, W8 5EP.

Reviewer: Helenka Bednar