Guide to the best restaurants in South Kensington

Daquise has been serving Polish dishes in South Kensington since 1947, making it the oldest Polish restaurant in the city. The food is traditional and the venue is steeped in history, with a rustic and classic dining space. Try authentic recipes here like dumplings with various fillings, soup, veal meatballs, and pork tenderloin.

In an elegant Grade II listed building with a classical interior, Ognisko provides a tasteful, romantic setting for indulging in a bit of Old Continent hospitality. The menu showcases traditional Polish specialities such as pierogi dumplings, potato pancakes, roast duck and more. In the bar, you can sample wines from around the world, as well as different cocktails. There's also a large covered terrace for outdoors dining.

A well-kept secret of London's sushi scene, this refined sushi counter in South Kensington is run by chefs Yasuhiro Mineno and Shinya Ikeda, known and respected for their knifework and general mastery of the sushi arts. Sit behind the counter and watch the preparation of the inventive delicacies that put the entire fish to use, from nose to tail, or go for one of the takeaway options.

If it's a sunny day and you're hankering for a nice al fresco meal, The Orangery at Number Sixteen is a sure-fire South Ken hit. The restaurant features a bright, tree-lined garden with an abundance of leafy greenery and unique architectural choices, providing the perfect backdrop for outdoor dining. The art-decorated interior isn't too shabby, either. Choose from a variety of international favourites, indulge in afternoon tea, or just relax with a drink.

This bright and vivid spot is known for the creativity it applies to its tapas plates, blending traditional flavours, contemporary culinary methods and global inspirations in a range of a range of tasty dishes that have won over even the likes of Rafael Nadal. In fact, around Wimbledon time, tennis fans can expect to see quite a few familiar faces here, celebrating victory or commiserating over loss with the help of an award-winning Spanish wine list.

Wright Brothers are famed citywide for their fresh seafood, highlighted by their impressive oyster offer and catch of the day specials. Their South Kensington branch is a small, cosy spot that draws inspiration from around the world with an assortment of globally inspired dishes. Venture into the basement to find the Art Deco-styled Mermaid Bar with creative cocktails.

Offering Italian class and refinement in a space boasting Murano glass chandeliers and modern European artwork on the walls, Daphne's has been catering to upmarket crowds since first established in the 1960s by none other than Richard Burton's agent. The menu here revolves around flavourful, seasonal Italian fare with rustic overtones, from Veal Milanese and different pasta dishes to all sorts of plant-based options. House cocktails and an extensive international wine list provide the ideal accompaniment. 

Across the street from Rafael Nadal's beloved Cambio de Tercio and part of the same restaurant family, Tendido Cero offers a somewhat more relaxed atmosphere – though that's not to say it loses much on the sophistication front when it comes to the dining. With vibrant scarlet-and-black decor, different kinds of classic and contemporary tapas creativity on display, and convivial vibes throughout, it's a great place for group celebrations.

The Hunter's Moon effortlessly blends vintage tile flooring and opulent furnishings with pendant lighting, striking a perfect balance between the old and the new. The front pub area is designed for intimate gatherings, while the dining room features natural light, an open fireplace, and original domestic touches like an AGA cooker. The kitchen offers a daily-changing menu of modern European dishes, while the front pub area serves a more casual menu of snacks and sharing plates.

Once a magnet for celebs, Sale e Pepe has had a slick revamp under the new ownership of the team behind Los Mochis. The vibe is classic Italian with modern touches – think crisp white tablecloths, curated art, and old-school glamour. The menu leans into favourites (pasta, veal, tiramisu) but isn't afraid of a twist or two. There's a buzzy bar for pre-dinner drinks, and the whole place is surprisingly group- and dog-friendly.

This South Kensington spot is located just opposite the Natural History Museum and is named after one-time resident and artist Sir John Lavery. The restaurant nods to its roots while serving a menu built around top-notch Scottish produce. Expect refined dishes, a well-curated wine list, and a space that feels just as much a gallery as it is a dining room.

Perched high up on the tenth floor near Kensington Palace, Min Jiang is all about refined Chinese fare served with a side of lush parkland views. The showstopper is the legendary wood-fired Peking duck, carved tableside by waiters wearing elegant white gloves. Dim sum towers, prawn toast, satay chicken, and a slick lineup of rice and noodle dishes are just a handful of the things to expect on the menu here.

Regularly name-checked among London's best, Philip Howard's Michelin-starred Chelsea spot serves European dishes with a seasonal focus – available à la carte, as a set lunch, or via the 'Six of the Best' tasting menu. The space is calm and modern, with all natural tones and service that leans into old-school charm. Rounded off with an exceptional wine stacked with global faves.