Ellen Kensington: Lacquer Room Unveils Pan-Asian Dining Excellence
A new culinary gem has emerged in one of London’s most prestigious neighbourhoods, Kensington. The Lacquer Room, an exquisite pan-Asian restaurant, has officially opened at Ellen Kensington, setting a new standard in sophisticated dining. With celebrated Singaporean chef Eugene Lam at the helm, this remarkable venue blends bold Asian flavours with an elegant, immersive dining experience.
Located at 18-26 Barkston Gardens, Kensington, Lacquer Room is a stunning, 123-cover restaurant with a private outdoor terrace, an intimate dining room, and a captivating countertop experience where guests can interact with the culinary process. Complementing the restaurant is Ellen Bar, a chic drinks destination featuring its own private terrace – perfect for sipping cocktails in style.
A Culinary Journey Through Asia
Lacquer Room’s menu is a reflection of Chef Eugene Lam’s extraordinary expertise in Japanese and Asian cuisine. Renowned for his innovative approach, Chef Lam brings together his Singaporean roots and a passion for Japan’s culinary traditions to create a menu that celebrates the rich diversity of Asia’s food culture. Drawing inspiration from his personal favourites across the continent, his ever-evolving dishes promise to deliver both familiar comfort and exciting new flavours.
Start your journey with delicate dishes such as Asari Clams—Manila clams steamed in sake and butter; Chicken Karaage, crispy Japanese-style fried chicken; and Chawanmushi, a silky steamed egg custard topped with luscious salmon roe.
For a convivial dining experience, Chef Lam recommends sharing the signature mains, including Tonkatsu Shabu Shabu, a comforting dish of pork belly, napa cabbage, shiitake mushrooms, tofu, and glass noodles; Wagyu Sukiyaki, a premium wagyu beef hotpot with vegetables and tofu; and Fried Oyster Roll, crispy oysters wrapped in sushi rice and nori.
For those seeking individual standout dishes, the Gindara Saikyo Yaki is a must-try—24-hour miso-marinated black cod cooked to perfection. Other highlights include the Lobster Laksa, an aromatic bowl of rice noodles in rich broth, and the A5 Wagyu Beef Sando, a luxurious Japanese wagyu sandwich served with crispy fries.
Desserts are equally indulgent, with options like Mochi filled with green tea, black sesame, mango, or vanilla ice cream, Sweet Red Bean with Ice Cream, and golden Banana Fritters drizzled with honey.
A Tailored Dining Experience
The private dining room, which seats up to 20 guests, offers a serene and stylish space with its own terrace, ideal for intimate gatherings or bespoke events. Ellen Bar offers an inviting atmosphere with a curated selection of signature cocktails, including The Ellen, Singapore Sling, and Piña Colada, all complemented by an exclusive private terrace for cigar aficionados.
A Fusion of Cultures
The design of Lacquer Room is a beautiful fusion of East and West, where Chinoiserie touches meet classic English elements, creating an ambiance that is both timeless and contemporary. This harmonious blend reflects the ethos of Ellen Kensington itself, which spans five interconnected Victorian townhouses overlooking the picturesque Barkston Gardens. The hotel’s distinct character is enriched by the Asian heritage of its ownership group, KOP Limited.
True to its cultural roots, the service at Lacquer Room reflects the Asian philosophy of hospitality, where every guest is treated with the utmost care and respect, ensuring that each dining experience feels uniquely personal and luxurious.
A Prime Location
Lacquer Room is ideally located within easy reach of London’s cultural landmarks, including the Natural History Museum, Victoria and Albert Museum, Royal Albert Hall, and the Science Museum. Just a two-minute walk from Earl’s Court Underground station, the restaurant and hotel enjoy excellent transport links, making them easily accessible from all parts of the city and Heathrow Airport.
Whether you are a local resident or a traveller seeking an unforgettable dining experience, Lacquer Room at Ellen Kensington is set to become the destination of choice for discerning food lovers in London.
For reservations and more information, visit www.ellenkensington.com.