Ellen Kensington: Lacquer Room Continues to Define Pan-Asian Dining Excellence in 2026

One of Kensington’s most refined dining destinations continues to captivate London’s culinary scene in 2026. Ellen Kensington remains a standout luxury boutique hotel, while its signature restaurant, Lacquer Room, has firmly established itself as one of West London’s premier pan-Asian dining experiences.

Led by acclaimed Singaporean chef Eugene Lam, Lacquer Room continues to blend bold Asian flavours, elegant interiors, and contemporary hospitality into a sophisticated culinary journey that reflects the cosmopolitan spirit of modern London.

Located within the beautifully restored Victorian townhouses of Ellen Kensington on Barkston Gardens, the 123-cover restaurant offers a seamless mix of intimate dining spaces, a stylish outdoor terrace, and an immersive countertop dining experience where guests can observe the precision and artistry behind each dish. Adjacent to the restaurant, Ellen Bar remains a chic social destination, known for its refined cocktails, relaxed atmosphere, and private terrace.

A Contemporary Culinary Journey Across Asia

In 2026, Lacquer Room’s menu continues to evolve while staying rooted in Chef Eugene Lam’s celebrated approach to Japanese and pan-Asian cuisine. Drawing inspiration from Singapore, Japan, Korea, Southeast Asia, and beyond, the menu balances comforting classics with inventive modern interpretations.

Guests can begin with elegant small plates such as Asari Clams steamed in sake and butter, crisp Chicken Karaage, and delicate Chawanmushi topped with salmon roe. Seasonal ingredients and rotating specials now play an even larger role in the dining experience, reflecting London’s growing appetite for elevated yet approachable Asian cuisine.

The restaurant’s signature sharing dishes remain central to the experience. Highlights include the richly flavoured Tonkatsu Shabu Shabu with pork belly, napa cabbage, tofu, and shiitake mushrooms, alongside the indulgent Wagyu Sukiyaki hotpot and the popular Fried Oyster Roll wrapped in sushi rice and nori.

Among the standout individual dishes, the Gindara Saikyo Yaki — black cod marinated in miso for 24 hours — continues to be a guest favourite. The Lobster Laksa delivers bold Southeast Asian flavours with luxurious depth, while the A5 Wagyu Beef Sando remains one of the restaurant’s most sought-after signature plates.

Desserts maintain the restaurant’s balance of indulgence and finesse, featuring handmade Mochi with seasonal fillings, Sweet Red Bean with Ice Cream, and crisp Banana Fritters finished with honey.

Elevated Dining and Social Experiences

The private dining room at Lacquer Room continues to attract guests seeking an exclusive setting for celebrations, corporate dinners, and intimate gatherings. Accommodating up to 20 guests with access to a private terrace, the space combines understated luxury with personalised service.

Meanwhile, Ellen Bar has evolved into a fashionable Kensington cocktail destination in its own right. Signature drinks such as The Ellen and the Singapore Sling sit alongside contemporary Asian-inspired cocktail creations, premium spirits, and curated wine selections. The terrace remains a sought-after retreat during the warmer months, offering a refined outdoor setting in the heart of West London.

Design That Blends East and West

The visual identity of Lacquer Room remains one of its defining features. The interiors continue to marry Chinoiserie influences with classic English elegance, creating a timeless atmosphere that feels both luxurious and welcoming.

This East-meets-West philosophy reflects the wider identity of Ellen Kensington itself. Spanning five interconnected Victorian townhouses overlooking Barkston Gardens, the hotel combines heritage architecture with contemporary design, enriched by the Asian roots of ownership group KOP Limited.

Service at Lacquer Room also embraces the Asian philosophy of hospitality, where attentiveness, warmth, and personalised care remain central to the guest experience.

A Prime Kensington Location

Lacquer Room’s location continues to be one of its major attractions in 2026. Situated moments from Earl’s Court Underground station, the restaurant offers easy access to some of London’s most iconic cultural landmarks, including the Natural History Museum, Victoria and Albert Museum, Royal Albert Hall, and the Science Museum.

As London’s dining scene continues to evolve, Lacquer Room at Ellen Kensington has secured its place as a destination for discerning diners seeking refined pan-Asian cuisine, stylish surroundings, and exceptional hospitality.

For reservations and further information, visit Ellen Kensington.

For reservations and more information, visit www.ellenkensington.com.