Eden at Ember Locke
EVE at Ember Locke was on my go-to list, as I mentioned in my September restaurant opening article, and it proved to be an Eden that tantalizes the senses, leaving you craving for more.
Not only was I wowed by the gorgeous interiors, but I also fell under the spell of the restaurant manager’s charming hospitality.
Ambiance:
EVE is simply enchanting the moment you walk in. The place exudes modern charm with a touch of elegance. And staying true to its name, EVE, the dining area is adorned with flowers and plants, creating a tempting ambiance that is perfect for romantic and chic evenings.
They also have this adorable private area that looks totally like an Eden. It’s perfect for a fashionable friends gathering.
Service:
EVE didn’t just steal Adam’s heart but also captured the heart of this discerning diner with her service, which was orchestrated by the restaurant manager. He was always attentive, ensuring everything was just right. His knowledge of the menu, including their recommended dishes, was truly impressive.
Drink:
They offer a variety of cocktails and a wine list. Additionally, they have excellent non-alcoholic options, including non-alcoholic wine for you to enjoy.
Price: ££
The pricing is very reasonable considering the great ambiance and service.
So I have given good comments so far, but their Executive Chef, Talia Prince, failed to make me fall in love with her dishes, though. I didn’t find any twist of zest or spice she claimed to add to the dishes. It was more like dishes for Brits who enjoy afternoon tea and cook turkey on Christmas Eve.
Oh, and by the way, Chef Talia has her own Chef Residency at Soho House White City. If you’re a foodie, you might just scratch your head and say, ‘Well, that explains it!’
What I Ordered:
Mezze: Today’s bread basket, Seasonal raw vegetables, Herb labneh, Baba ganoush
Started my dinner with some mezze as a Middle Eastern way: ordered Today’s bread basket, Seasonal raw vegetables, Herb labneh, and Baba ganoush ti dip. Each dish tasted decent, but nothing stood out as particularly special. I hoped for more authentic Middle Eastern flavor, especially in the labneh and baba ganoush.
ZFC, zhoug mayo chicken
The chicken had a crispy exterior, and the zhoug mayo, with its blend of herbs and spices, added a delightful burst of vibrancy. It was a harmonious marriage of textures and flavors.
Prawns, smoked garlic, Baharat, lime & chilli butter
The Baharat and chili butter tasted well. However the prawn itself was so small and could not even taste the prawn. And to be honest, I was hoping for some more impressive company on the plate. Maybe a fancy side dish could’ve livened up the party.
*Ras el hanout lamb, baba ganoush
The lamb was cooked to succulent perfection. But what truly set this dish apart was the balance between the richness of the lamb and the subtle smokiness of the baba ganoush, along with the tanginess from balsamic vinegar.
The pickles also added a delightful contrast in taste, enhancing the overall experience.
Zhoug stonebass, smoked tomato chickpeas, toum
The stonebass had a delicate flakiness, and the smoked tomato chickpeas, serving as a brilliant accompaniment, added depth and texture to the dish. They provided a smoky and slightly sweet undertone that beautifully complemented the stonebass.
Pistachio polenta cake, fig leaf syrup, sour cream
The polenta cake was moist, crumbly, and rich with nutty goodness. The fig leaf syrup, with its delicate sweetness and subtle herbal undertones, elevated the dessert.
Conclusion:
EVE at Ember Locke Kensington is where the atmosphere and service come together in a delightful embrace. While the dishes didn’t quite pack the punch of Middle Eastern spices, some still tasted decent as a British twist.
But you know what? The restaurant manager was the real star here. EVE is definitely the place to be if you’re up for an romantic and cozy dining in Kensington / Earl’s Court area.
Be sure to check out the cafe area. It offers a nice space where you can work from.
EVE’s All-day menu: https://cdn.sanity.io/files/4r335kgl/production/1dac577abfd21288126a0db77da3f5d37e63bbf0.pdf
Booking: https://www.sevenrooms.com/reservations/evekensington
