Aubrey Restaurant and Bar at The Kensington Hotel

As an American enjoying her first traditional British supper in London, I wasn't quite sure what to expect.  While hearty and comforting, British food isn't known to be the world's favorite cuisine -- in fact, it's probably far from it.  To be fair, there are certain items that the English do brilliantly, and for that I am eternally grateful (three words, friends: sticky toffee pudding).

Mixed expectations aside, upon arrival of The Kensington Hotel, I immediately knew that dinner was going to be special.  With exquisite chandeliers adoring the bar area, to the dark timber-panelled walls and leather green benches in the dining room, Aubrey Restaurant preserves class, style, and sophistication with a quintessential British air.  In the same vein, there is an element of familiarity that helps dissipate some of the elite snobbery.  Though it's a bit fancy-pants for my usual dining, the overall vibe here is great.  But let's get on with what I'm here for; so without any further ado, onto the food!*

Pre-starter: Poppy and sesame seed bun

Starter: Smoked Salmon with buttered brown bread and minced shallots, capers, and creme fraiche.

Main: Thinly sliced roast meat with Yorkshire pudding and buttered potatoes

Dessert: Sticky Toffee Pudding

Post-dessert: Chocolates with coffee and/or tea 

Yum!

Former Michelin-starred Chef John Wood and Head Chef Russell Ford does a fantastic job in maintaining high quality food at the Aubrey.  Everything from the smoked salmon starter to the roast and the famous sticky toffee pudding was tasty and complemented well with my glass of Merlot-Cab from Chile.  Best of all, as always, was the company and the warm conversations and laughs shared.  Thank you, Pepperdine Law for the delicious meal!



And to close, I leave you with a worthwhile quote: "When a man is tired of London, he is tired of life."  - Samuel Johnson.


* All photos are provided by the dear Monsons, without whom I would've had a panic attack.  Two minutes prior to dinner, my memory card decided to fail.  I started sweating bullets, but the Monsons came to the rescue!  Thanks again!



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cuisine: British
location: South Kensington { on Queens Gate and Old Brompton }
nearest tube station(s): South Kensington, Gloucester Road
websites: Aubrey
attire: "Smartly" (aka - semi-dressy)
note: Aubrey Restaurant also has afternoon tea from 3:00 - 6:00 PM.