If you’re moving to Kensington, you may already know that this London neighbourhood is bursting with things to see and do. You’ll find everything from globally renowned museums and 19th-century concert halls, to royal residences and beautiful green parks. But Kensington is about much more than just its attractions; it’s also one of the capital’s culinary hotspots, filled with opulent venues for wining and dining.

One of your first tasks after booking your London removals company should be to plan your first meal out in Kensington. After all, no one wants to cook after a busy day moving house. So where will it be? If you’re looking for some inspiration, here are a few local eateries with great wine menus:

For drinks and nibbles…

Wine Rooms, Kensington

The Kensington branch of Wine Rooms boasts an extensive range of over 40 wines, served by the glass. The selection varies from crisp and dry whites, to textured and rich reds. They include small-scale boutique brands and award-winning wines from around the world. While there’s an exceptional lunch and evening menu on offer, locals flock here for the tapas, charcuterie, and unpasteurised cheeses – the perfect nibbles for enjoying with a glass or two of wine. Recommendations are suggested, if desired, for all menu items, allowing you to perfectly complement your dishes.

Where to find it: on the corner of Church Street and Peel Street, a 4-minute walk from Notting Hill Gate

For locally sourced cuisine…

Origin Kensington

Located inside the Royal Garden Hotel, Origin Kensington is renowned for its dedication to using locally sourced ingredients in its food and drink offerings. Dishes feature high-quality ingredients such as Wiltshire truffles, Blythburgh pork, Orkney scallops, Cornish sea bass, and Devonshire chicken. The drinks menu is dominated by English sparkling wines and British gins. As the chefs and sommeliers work with local producers and suppliers, the menus change frequently, ensuring that everything served up at Origin Kensington is as fresh and delectable as possible.

Where to find it: inside the Royal Garden Hotel on Kensington High Street, overlooking the gardens

For a touch of European flair…

28°-50° Wine Workshop & Kitchen

There are just 30 wines on the 28°-50° wine list in South Kensington: 15 red and 15 white. However, you’ll struggle to find a more diverse selection anywhere else in London. Served by the glass, carafe, or bottle, the offerings range from well-known fine wines to more unusual, mature collectables. The team are also happy to arrange wine tastings by appointment. In terms of food, you’ll find a heavily French menu, with hints of European influence. Think fresh salade lyonnaise, moules marinière, ratatouille, and mushroom vol-au-vents, all with their own perfect wine pairings.

Where to find it: on Marylebone Lane off Seymour Street, a 4-minute walk from Bond Street station

For alfresco dining…

Brunello Bar & Restaurant

At the Baglioni Hotel London, you’ll find the Brunello Bar & Restaurant, and ‘la Terrazza di Brunello’; the Brunello Terrace. It’s a stunning place to wine and dine in the warmer months. And while it’s right in the heart of the action, between Kensington High Street and the Royal Albert Hall, the carefully manicured topiary creates a feeling of peace and seclusion. The traditional Italian fare – arancini, burrata, gnocchi – is best enjoyed with the wide selection of prosecco, franciacorta, and spumanti, along with the vintage and non-vintage champagnes.

Where to find it: at the Baglioni Hotel at Hyde Park Gate, overlooking the south end of the park

For Michelin-starred dining…

Kitchen W8

It’s easy to walk past this small, unassuming neighbourhood restaurant, but this is one of Kensington’s best-loved Michelin-starred venues. Chef Mark Kempson’s mouthwatering modern English meals earned Kitchen W8 its first Michelin star in 2011, and it’s kept its accolade each year since. The 12-page wine list here is a sight to behold, with everything from everyday wines to aged magnums, including a 1998 Riesling and 2008 Griotte-Chambertin. The menu changes with the season, but can include duck terrine, Cornish mackerel, roast Iberico pork, and a touch of French fusion.

Where to find it: On Abingdon Road off Kensington High Street, a 5-minute walk to High Street station

For families…

The Ivy Kensington Brasserie

Moving to Kensington with young children? There’s no reason you can’t go and enjoy an evening out, bringing the little ones along for the experience. The Ivy is the perfect place, with children and babies welcomed. There are almost 40 Ivy Collection restaurants across the UK, and the Kensington venue is one of the best. The simple pub-style food is offered alongside French champagnes and English sparkling wines, and options from the Napa Valley to the slopes of Mount Etna. Relax with a glass, while the children enjoy kid-friendly meals and a comforting babycino.

Where to find it: Inside the Pavilion Kensington, on the corner of Church Walk and the High Street

Explore more…

If none of the above options take your fancy, don’t worry. Kensington has plenty of fantastic wining and dining experiences to offer. If you’re moving to Kensington, one of the best ways to discover new places is simply to take a stroll around the area and see what looks good. The stretch of Kensington High Street between Holland Park and Kensington Gardens is a treasure trove of amazing restaurants, and is one of the first places you should visit if you’re searching for a great place to eat.

But don’t overlook other parts of Kensington. South Kensington, along Cromwell Road and south of the museum district, is a culinary delight. And Gloucester Road features cuisines from all over the world, with Thai, Indian, American, Italian, and Mediterranean restaurants sitting side-by-side.

At Cadogan Tate, we’re here to help with more than just removals. We’re proud to help our clients adjust to their new life in London, providing helpful advice and recommendations for making the most of their new neighbourhood. Get in touch for more information, or keep an eye on our blog for more neighbourhood guides, suggestions, activities, and attractions across the UK’s capital city.