London Kensal Rise Restaurant Guide

2021 Review: “What a find!” – In a fairly obscure part of town, near the Queen’s Park Estate, “a really cosy, neighbourhood Italian, serving a top selection of cheap ’n’ cheerful dishes, but also more pricey ones, all freshly made and of great quality” (in particular the hand-rolled pasta). Service from husband-and-wife team Simonetta and Avi “is very professional but lively, and there’s a real sense of community at play (e.g. the staff were handing out little pieces of paper with a guest’s name on it, asking us to sing along for his birthday!)”

“Top Neapolitan pizza”, say fans of this Kensal Rise 11-year-old and its Crouch End offshoot, which offers a “limited and delicious menu (they stick to what they know) in cool surroundings”.

“Chicken with amazing sides” is the winning formula at Romain Bourrillon’s rotisserie chain, which imports its chooks from France. “Nice brunch”, too.

“Interesting Israeli/Middle Eastern dishes” served in a “fun, vibey setting” have created a big winner for the Berber & Q team at this Queen’s Park two-year-old: a “great neighbourhood addition”. “There are super veg options, but also fab meat and fish ones too”. “The large shared table might not be for everyone” although there is also some more conventional seating (mostly for couples). Top Tip – the small terrace in summer is particularly “nice, as there are no cars outside”.

“Really succulent rendang” is a menu highlight at this “great new Malaysian eatery”: a ‘kopitiam’ (café-style) venture which opened in Queen’s Park in late 2022. It’s the creation of siblings Fatizah and Irqam Shawal, whose parents opened London’s most venerable Malaysian – Satay House – in 1973.