The Ellen Kensington is a charming hotel – just minutes from Earl’s Court tube station and iconic London attractions. But despite being in the heart of one of London’s busiest tourist areas – once you step through the sliding doors of the Ellen Kensington the hustle and bustle of the city feels a million miles away.
The calm, elegant and beautifully decorated lobby is the perfect setting for what this hotel offers – and just wait until you see the rooms, all of which reflect Chinoiserie touches beautifully juxtaposed with classic English design elements.
Whether it’s enjoying a rain shower in the exquisitely decorated bathroom, or donning the fluffy white robe and slippers while sipping on a glass of wine overlooking Barkston Gardens, make sure you plan in enough time to make the most of your room.
The standout element of our stay was the recently opened Lacquer Room restaurant. The pan-Asian menu is meticulously crafted by chef Eugene Lam and spans Asia’s rich culinary heritage. We started with the Sweet Potato Tempura £8 and the Deep-Fried Baby Squid Karaage (£12).
It didn’t take long for the food to arrive and it was pretty evident as soon as it did that this meal was going to be pretty special. The squid was garnished with spring onions and chillies, really adding a kick to the flavour. While the presentation of the tempura (in its own little basket) was really something special to look at.
My husband went for the Wagyu Beef Stew (£32) for his main course, which came with a side of rice. It was beautifully rich with the Japanese Zest flavour really coming through and the meat just melted in your mouth.
But I think my Gindara Saikyo Yaki 24-hour-miso-marinated black cod (£26) was the showstopper of the meal. I’m not over-exaggerating when I say it’s one of the best things I’ve ever tasted – truly delicious. This one didn’t come with a side – I went with rice (£5) but there are plenty of other options as well.
To finish we went with Sweet Red Bean with Green tea Ice Cream (£7) and the Banana Fritters (£10).
While you’re there
You are just a ten minute walk from some of London’s most popular museums – including the Natural History Museum, the V&A and the Science Museum. All of them are free to enter – although some exhibits may require a fee. Hyde Park, Kensington Palace and Harrods are all walking distance. And with Earl’s Court just three minutes away it’s a perfect location to explore all of London.
Double rooms start from £240 a night, breakfast included, ellenkensington.com.
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