PA Life visited EVE in Kensington to try out the relative newcomer, opened in September 2023, that’s already made its mark in this foodie neighbourhood by becoming a firm favourite with the locals. We could see the appeal as soon as we stepped into the warmly coloured and welcoming lobby.
EVE is located in a rather grand townhouse just a few minute walk from Earl’s Court and Gloucester Road tube stations. It’ part of a hotel and also houses a cafe in the lobby, a beautiful private dining room, a conservatory space which caters for small events and a secluded garden at the rear of the building. There are plans to turn the garden in to an al-fresco drinks and dining area in the summer. They even have live music every Thursday and Friday night.
The atmosphere felt instantly very relaxed and wholesome, yet chic with gorgeously rich Mediterranean and Middle Eastern colours and deco to match.
The restaurant is a beautiful room with high ceilings and tall windows. The warm green of the walls and the terracotta furnishings complement each other perfectly. Despite most tables being occupied on the Saturday evening when we arrived, the spacious setting was designed for great private dining moments.
What’s the food like at EVE in Kensington
EVE has become a neighbourhood favourite in Kensington since it opened in September 2023 thanks to its diverse and superbly cooked all-day menu. There are plenty of vegan options too that will appeal to everyone. The Executive Chef Talia Prince brings her extensive experience to the kitchen. She’s previously worked at Le Gavroche, The Fat Duck and held a Chef Residency at Soho House White City.
Talia has taken inspiration from the rich Eastern and Southern Mediterranean regional cuisine and created a great menu of zingy and spicy dishes that are ideal for sharing. Sharing is caring and the best way to eat with friends and family, and you also get to taste more of the menu.
We went for the sharing idea, but before I get to the foodie bit I must mention the delicious Hibiscus Margaritas. A must try when you visit.
We ordered charred sardines on grilled bread with sour cherry harissa, parsley and lemon. As a seafood lover the fresh fishy taste of the sardines would have enough to want to praise my choice but this dish was balanced well with the kick of the harissa and lemon even for my non-sardine lover son.
The lamb kefta skewers melted in the mouth with the juicy lamb, and so did the slow cooked duck leg which was served simply with a garnish of medlar jelly, bitter leaf and kumquat salad. Even the modest side of their seasonal greens were super tasty. The broccoli and kale we tossed with garlic, walnuts, chilli butter and shaved egg yolk that made it an ‘equal’ platter to the rest. The rice pilaf with roasted cauliflower, toasted almonds and sultanas worked as a really good side too adding great middle eastern flavour to the meal.
The cocktails and wines are not to be missed
The drinks menu has a good selection of classic cocktails and more exotic house creations. The extensive wine menu is worth taking a close look at too. You’ll find a great selection, including fine wines and choices from a number of less popular countries such as as Slovenia and Georgia. We enjoyed the Brio Toscana, Italy 2021 which delivered the promised blueberry and cherry notes.
EVE caters for a fantastic Saturday brunch too
EVE’s Saturday Brunch (£35pp) draws inspiration from these flavours, offering an exciting three-course menu that is both delicious and distinctive, featuring Head Chef Talia Prince’s unique twist on brunch classics.
The brunch features hero dishes such as ZFC Fried Chicken Burger and Shakshuka with Za’tar Flatbread all served alongside unlimited drinks*.
Contact EVE
Ember Locke
202-220 Cromwell Road
Kensington, London
SW5 0SW
Google Maps
Restaurant: Weds–Saturday 6-10pm
Brunch: Saturdays & Sundays 11am-4pm (last sitting)
Bar: Monday–Friday, 4-11pm, Weekends 11am–11pm
Café: Daily 7am–4pm
