Best Contemporary French Restaurants in Kensington

30 restaurants available nearby

A photo of CORE by Clare Smyth restaurant

1. CORE by Clare Smyth

4.9

Exceptional(3484)

Price: Very Expensive

• Contemporary french • Notting Hill

Booked 23 times today

CORE by Clare Smyth in Notting Hill, London, stands as a beacon of Contemporary European cuisine, infused with a distinctive British flair. Since its opening in 2017, the restaurant has captivated diners with its "sublime" and "meticulously put together" dishes, as one patron noted, emphasizing the harmonious blend of flavors. The dedication to excellence is palpable, with guests praising the "exceptional food and service" and an ambiance that marries elegance with comfort. Reviews consistently highlight the "thoughtful food" and the skilled staff that makes each dining experience memorable. CORE by Clare Smyth is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of contemporary culinary artistry, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking the pinnacle of fine dining in London.

2. Gallery

4.7

Exceptional(8056)

Price: Very Expensive

• Contemporary french • Covent Garden

Booked 33 times today

At the heart of Covent Garden, London, the Savoy Lounge (formerly Thames Foyer) serves as a beacon of British cuisine, offering a sumptuous array of traditional recipes with a contemporary twist. Renowned for its legendary afternoon tea, the Savoy Lounge excels in both service and presentation, capturing the essence of British dining with "outstanding service" and "delicious" fare. Guests frequently praise the "beautiful setting" and the "excellent attention to detail," making each visit memorable. Whether it's the classic afternoon tea or a vibrant lunch, the Savoy Lounge is a perfect embodiment of British culinary excellence, making it a must-visit for those seeking an authentic and luxurious dining experience in London.

3. Balthazar London

4.3

Awesome(5280)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary french • Covent Garden

Booked 164 times today

Nestled in the vibrant Covent Garden, London, Balthazar London is a gem for those seeking exceptional Contemporary French cuisine with a brasserie twist. Patrons rave about the "authentic Bistrot environment" and the "exceptionally tasty" dishes that reflect true French culinary artistry. The restaurant's dedication to quality is evident, with guests highlighting the "fresh oysters" and "delicious fruits de mer" that transport diners straight to France. A standout is the "delicious 3 course Prix Fixe dinner" which, along with the "superb service," makes Balthazar not just a meal, but a delightful French experience. As one diner puts it, this place is "above my expectation," making it a must-visit for lovers of French fare.

4. La Palombe

4.9

Exceptional(90)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary french • Kensington

Booked 1 time today

At La Palombe in Kensington, London, French cuisine is celebrated with a unique twist, highlighting the flavors of the Pyrenees and French Basque Country. Guests rave about the authenticity and quality, describing it as a place where "the duck and cod were excellent" and the "confit duck starter was truly amazing." The restaurant's wood-burning grill and rotisserie, prominently featured, add a rustic yet refined touch to their dishes, which are crafted from wild and foraged foods. The commitment to natural and biodynamic wines complements their menu perfectly, enhancing the dining experience. As one reviewer put it, La Palombe is "a gem" where native Basque guests feel right at home, making it a must-visit for those seeking a genuine French culinary adventure in the heart of London.

A photo of Palm Court Brasserie restaurant

5. Palm Court Brasserie

4.6

Exceptional(15232)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary french • Covent Garden

Booked 57 times today

Palm Court is the quintessential Parisian-style brasserie in the heart of Covent Garden. The restaurant has been lovingly crafted to recreate a classical 1920’s art nouveau-style venue echoing elegant dining rooms in Paris’s most affluent arrondissements.The restaurant offers a menu of French classics centred on seasonal meat, fish, seafood and vegetable dishes with quality and flavour at the forefront of our work. Whether you are dining for lunch with colleagues, dinner with a special someone, for Afternoon Tea with family or simply stopping by for a glass of wine, Palm Court Brasserie resonates the ideal environment to help you relax and unwind. Our wine list boasts an enviable list of labels spanning the vineyards of France, Italy and the New World.

A photo of Boulevard Brasserie restaurant

6. Boulevard Brasserie

4.5

Awesome(11876)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary french • Covent Garden

Booked 47 times today

Boulevard Brasserie is one of Covent Garden’s most iconic restaurants fixtures. Serving heart-warming French classics since 1991, this grande dame of brasseries is the perfect place to soak up Covent Garden's unique cultural heritage. Set over three intimate floors with views of the Royal Opera House and décor reminiscent of 1920’s art nouveau Europe, Boulevard Brasserie echoes a true sense of Parisian style in London’s own Theatreland. The restaurant and café offers a selection of carefully curated menus founded on seasonality, freshness and flavour. Guests can choose from our popular Lunch and Pre-Theatre Menu, Light Lunches, Dinner Menu all serving Parisian classics such as French Onion Soup, Moules Marinière & frites, Croque Monsieur, Coq au vin, Crème Brûlée and our much-loved Traditional Afternoon Tea Menu.

7. Margaux

4.7

Exceptional(965)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary french • South Kensington

Booked 15 times today

Dine in style at Margaux, a beacon of Contemporary French cuisine nestled in the charming South Kensington neighborhood of London. This modern European restaurant delights with a menu that brilliantly blends French and Italian influences, featuring dishes like the "melt in the mouth delicious" swordfish and a "five-star tarte tatin." Patrons rave about the "outstanding food" and particularly laud the "perfectly cooked" beef Bourguignon. With a "100 bin wine list" praised for its breadth, Margaux ensures a perfect pairing for every palate. The ambiance is described as "relaxed and comfortable," making every visit a memorable experience. Whether it’s the "phenomenal great quality food" or the "exceptional service," Margaux is a must-visit for anyone seeking a top-tier dining experience in London.

8. Mister Nice

4.0

Excellent(16)

Price: Very Expensive

• Contemporary french • Mayfair

Mister Nice in Mayfair, London, is a gem for those seeking authentic Contemporary French cuisine with a gourmet twist. The restaurant's Parisian-inspired dishes, crafted with seasonal ingredients, ensure a fresh and delightful dining experience. Guests rave about the "perfectly creamy mashed potato" and the "truly indulgent rigatoni caviar," highlighting the meticulous preparation and exceptional flavors. The ambiance, described as "cozy yet stylish," complements the culinary delights, making every meal memorable. One reviewer summed up the consensus, stating, "One of the best food places I've been in London so far." Mister Nice stands out not only for its food but also for its "impeccable service" and vibrant atmosphere, making it a must-visit for lovers of refined French cuisine.

9. The NoMad London

4.4

Awesome(1735)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary french • Covent Garden

Booked 41 times today

Set in the vibrant heart of Covent Garden, The NoMad London offers an authentic British dining experience that is both eclectic and exquisite. The restaurant, praised for its Edwardian greenhouse ambiance, provides a menu that celebrates the richness of British cuisine with locally sourced ingredients from farm, field, and coast. Guests rave about the "amazing food" and "excellent service," highlighting the restaurant's ability to deliver both comfort and decadence. With glowing reviews like "the best food and service I have ever received at a restaurant" and an atmosphere described as perfect for a "lovely night," The NoMad London stands out as a top destination for those seeking a truly British culinary experience in an unforgettable setting.

10. Orrery

4.6

Exceptional(3950)

Price: Very Expensive

• Contemporary french • Marylebone

Booked 16 times today

Nestled in the heart of Marylebone, London, **Orrery** stands out as a beacon of contemporary French cuisine. The restaurant's elegance is matched by its culinary excellence, driven by Chef Patron Igor Tymchyshyn, known for his Michelin-starred expertise. Guests rave about Orrery's ability to consistently deliver "fabulous food" in a "fabulous setting" with "fabulous service." The refined dishes, beautifully presented, capture the essence and innovation of French cooking, making each dining experience memorable. Diners specifically highlight the "delicious and beautifully presented" food alongside the "exceptional" service, making Orrery a must-visit for those seeking an authentic contemporary French culinary journey.

‘About the restaurant’ descriptions have been generated using an artificial intelligence model comprised of OpenTable proprietary data that has not been independently verified by OpenTable. The content is presented as-is, for informational purposes only.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you

S
Simon
London •1 review
5.0
Dined 2 days ago
This must be the best restaurant not just in Kensington, not just in West London but in the entire city of London. This is now my third time and the food is consistently outstanding - I'll be back for a fourth time
More info
La PalombePrice: Expensive• French• Kensington
•
4.9
Q
Quinton
London •1 review
5.0
Dined 2 days ago
We have been here more than a few times and The Orrery never fails to amaze. Three perfectly-proportioned courses, accompanied by great wines, delivered by lovely staff. Thoroughly recommended!
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OrreryPrice: Very Expensive• French• Marylebone
•
4.6
D
David
New York City •3 reviews
5.0
Dined 7 days ago
Dinner was perfect. From amuse bouche to the final chocolates with coffee, the food, presentation and service was impeccable. An experience rarely achieved by most top restaurants. 3 Michelin stars greatly deserved.
More info
CORE by Clare SmythPrice: Very Expensive• British• Notting Hill
•
4.9
A
Aisling
London •7 reviews
5.0
Dined on Dec 10, 2024
Excellent service! Lovely, cosy ambiance, perfect for a date night or wine with friends. The lamb three ways, and duck breast were beautiful, and the tarte tatin to finish.
More info
MargauxPrice: Expensive• Contemporary European• South Kensington
•
4.7
OT
OpenTable DinerVIP
London •1 review
5.0
Dined on May 9, 2024
Amazing restaurant. Excellent food and service Good music
More info
Mister NicePrice: Very Expensive• Contemporary French• Mayfair
•
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Best Contemporary French Restaurants in Kensington

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30 restaurants available nearby

1. CORE by Clare Smyth

2. Gallery

3. Balthazar London

4. La Palombe

5. Palm Court Brasserie

6. Boulevard Brasserie

7. Margaux

8. Mister Nice

9. The NoMad London

10. Orrery

See what locals rave about

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