The Regent in Kensal Green, London – Reviewed By Louise Elgin

The Regent

Tel: 020 8969 2184

I was never much of a fan of the traditional British boozer, stale beer, fruit machines and fag buts never did it for me. Across London a revolution has taken place with these establishments largely being replaced by a much more contemporary version in the form of the gastro pub. The Regent in Kensal Green however is a bit different. Not to be confused with Regent Street W1, it is located in a tiny, (blink and you’ll miss it), alleyway in an area that has recently become very hip with the urban cognoscenti. Situated in an imposing turn of the century building, on the site of the original green itself, The Regent offers an diverse mix of decor in a casual and inviting setting.

Inside the look is one of wonderfully home-grown shabby chic, with eight different types of low lit chandeliers, mismatched tables and chairs, huge vases of flowers and draped red curtains all surrounding a large central bar. Music is played at a level that does not interfere with conversation and the overall atmosphere is very relaxed. To the rear there is a spacious and airy conservatory which must be a real hit in the summer.

Food-wise, there is a range of juicy and succulent organic burgers from their Retox Burger menu (beef, chicken or veggie) served up in every possible combination, such as
The Cobb Burger – avocado, red onion, bacon and gorgonzola and The Deli Burger – mustard, dill pickles, gruyere cheese and coleslaw. These come served with plenty of salad in a huge bun. Side orders include proper fat chips, French fries and coleslaw. The menu also includes a range of home-made favourites including macaroni cheese and fish pie. For dessert we shared a rich and moreish white chocolate bread and butter pudding. Other choices featured Tiramisu and cheesecake. Drink-wise a whole range of ales and wines are available, all reasonably priced. We tried a powerful and punchy New Zealand Pinot Noir, Sherwood Estate 2005 at £6.40 for a large glass.

I think The Regent wants you to come and treat it like an extension of your living room. Somewhere to relax with friends in a chilled atmosphere. On Sundays roasts are served, making it a perfect venue to idle away the day under a sea of newspapers with a bottle of wine or two whilst enjoying good company, leaving the chore of the cooking to someone else.

Louise Elgin. March 2008.

A meal for two with wine is around £20 -£25 a head.