Town House at The Kensington serves up the season’s best cuisine in a cosy, yet classical setting. Leanne Kelsall pops in for a quintessentially British dinner…

Just minutes from South Kensington tube station and tucked away within one of London’s most desirable neighbourhoods is Town House at The Kensington.

By Leanne Kelsall

Part of the renowned Doyle Collection, the chic, boutique hotel and restaurant is housed within a beautifully refurbished townhouse.

The restaurant is spread across three classically-designed drawing rooms. With a laid back atmosphere and charming service. It’s the ideal bolt hole for visitors and residents in south-west London.

On arrival, we were given the warmest of welcomes and shown to our table in front of a roaring fire. Bliss. The décor is regal yet relaxing, with plush velvet sofas, parquet flooring and lots of period features, like ornate pillars and dark oak furniture. It’s a complimentary mix of old and new.

There are books and artwork dotted around so the Town House feels as relaxing as your own living room. You’re free to kick back and unwind without any posh nosh stiffness cramping your style. Although the food remains faultless.

Town House at The Kensington serves breakfast, dinner, lunch and afternoon tea every day of the week. The restaurant celebrates best of British produce with a seasonally-changing menu that caters for all kinds of foodies.

From gluten-free afternoon tea to superfood salads and oh-so-indulgent options – the varied menu sets this restaurant apart from most others in the area.

The kitchen is led by Executive Chef Steve Gibbs, who’s worked under some of the UK’s best chefs, including Gordon Ramsey, Jason Atherton and Mark Hix.

When it came to the menu, the waiters didn’t overwhelm us with intricate facts about each of the dishes but were more than happy to offer suggestions. The menu is fuss-free and focuses on the finest, local ingredients with immaculate attention to detail.

We enjoyed a selection of bread to start, including that must-try Guinness Bread served across the entire Doyle Collection. I just can’t get enough of it.

For starters, we tried the tasty Dorset crab on toast (£12) but it was the succulent Scottish mussels (£9) that really stole the show. The portion was large enough for two and came with a generous scattering of chorizo and a rich white wine and celery sauce – perfect for dipping with the warm, crusty bread.

When it came to the mains, the truffled macaroni and cheese Dorset lobster (£22.50) was a satisfying winter warmer – rich and succulent. And the seasonal Grilled Cornish mixed fish (£20.50) included a moreish mixture of prawns, cod, sole, and other types, all cooked perfectly despite needing different times on the grill.

Dessert was equally as tasty – a decadent plum Bakewell pudding and a selection of ice creams. If you’ve got a sweet tooth, I highly recommend the afternoon tea here.

The wine list is dainty and features a selection of premium wines to pair with your meal. After dinner, guests can also venture into the glamorous K Bar for a cocktail crafted by Bar Manager Ben Manchester.

Town House is very much laid back luxury at its finest. It’s fit for dinner with friends, family, a first date or even your fiftieth. What can I say? Another flying success for the Doyle Collection.

Town House, Kensington – Where and How?

Town House is located within The Kensington, 109-113 Queen’s Gate, London, SW 7 5LR. For bookings or to find out more, call 020 7589 6300 or visit www.townhousekensington.com.