Notting Hill is a neighbourhood that is always evolving but way too cool to be shouting about it. Corners change, shops rebrand, restaurants come and go and only those that wander the neighbourhood will really be able to tell you what’s new and notable. So, when The KPH came recommended by not just one, but, three friends, I knew this was a new local worth trying. It was yet to be determined if it lived up to the hype.
Milly Kenny-Ryder and I sat down for a lunch for two on one of the last hot days of the summer. So hot, in fact, that when asked for a drink we nearly tripped over our tongues requesting Aperols. The boys behind the bar were quick to deliver while also suggesting a few in house cocktails to boot. I have to be entirely honest here and give a rather general impression of the beverages consumed. There were inhaled, with little stopping to discuss the cocktail expertise. They must have been good, however, as there were a lot of refreshed sighs coming from us as they went down.
Food was ordered next and we asked for guidance from the waiter as to what was not to be missed. Let’s just say he came back with nearly the whole menu. But, he was good in pointing out what might be better for discerning palettes and particular dietary requirements. Milly doesn’t eat seafood, so that bit of tasting always comes down to me. Good thing my home is on the sea… practically raised by prawns.
The oysters, all four of them, slipped down my gullet swiftly and with great appreciation for a cool food in this rather uncomfortable weather. Served as they should have been, on ice and with shallot vinegar, I was very grateful for their appearance on the table. Our mains, however, said a little less “hot weather,” and a little more “comfort food.” Milly went all in on comforts with pasta…delicious, decadent pasta. And I satiated my inner carnivore with an order of steak frites. All dishes were bursting with flavour, perfectly sized and served with a smile and a cheeky comment on the fact that we ate a lot for girls. Yes, dear sir, we do. In fact, some may say our life is food, and we’re damn proud of it.
The KPH is charming. Truly. The venue is as traditional a pub as a pub can be, but one you would proud to send a tourist into. Why oh why do friends continue to recommend pubs where the fish and chips are really the only thing on order, they taste terrible and you have to contend with a sticky pub floor to make it to your table for delivery? So many London pubs are, well, they are disgusting. And some people love that. I’m not one of them. I want a pub that has the atmosphere of a neighbourhood hangout, with beautiful décor, charming staff and impeccable food on the menu. The KPH delivers on all of those things. I can’t wait to see what they do for winter. I’ll be the first in, requesting a table at the bar and a large pint to warm my blustery soul.
The KPH is ideally located on the corner of Ladbroke Grove, in Notting Hill.
For more information on booking or to check out updated menus, please visit their website.
