The Venue
Entering Como Garden is like stepping into a little corner of Italy, right in the middle of Kensington, London. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, blending the rustic charm of an Italian garden with stylish, contemporary touches. Greenery drapes from the ceiling, and walls are lined with plants, giving the space a fresh, lush feel.
The tables are beautifully set with slightly worn wooden tops, adding a touch of rustic authenticity, while soft leather seating invites you to sit back and enjoy the experience. The lighting is soft and flattering, with candle-lit tables that add a romantic glow, making it perfect for both cosy dinners and celebratory gatherings.
The Food Highlights
Como Garden’s menu is a homage to classic Italian dishes, executed with flair and attention to detail. Each dish is crafted to showcase the best of Italian ingredients and flavours, giving a comforting and authentic dining experience.
- Arancini with Parmesan and Fontina Cheese: The arancini arrived golden and crisp, like little edible jewels on the plate. The outer layer had a satisfying crunch, giving way to a rich and creamy filling that was wonderfully cheesy. A hint of pesto added a refreshing herbal note, cutting through the richness and making this a brilliant start to the meal.
- Melanzane Parmigiana: This melanzane parmigiana was my favourite dish. It was pure Italian comfort food at its best. The aubergine was soft and perfectly cooked, layered with a rich tomato sauce that had a slow-cooked depth of flavour. A bubbling, golden crust of mozzarella and Parmesan on top added a gorgeous finishing touch.
- Roast Chicken with Truffle Filling and Mashed Potatoes: The roast chicken was a standout, beautifully cooked with a crisp golden skin. Inside, the meat was tender and juicy, while the truffle filling added a subtle earthy aroma that lifted the flavour without overpowering it. The mashed potatoes alongside were smooth and buttery, complementing the chicken with a creamy richness.
- Seabass alla Mugnaia: The seabass was perfectly pan-fried, with a light and crispy skin and delicate, flaky flesh. Served in a classic butter and lemon sauce, it had just the right amount of richness and brightness, with fresh herbs adding a touch of fragrance.
- Tiramisu: Como Garden’s tiramisu was a true delight and the ideal way to end the meal. It had distinct layers of light, creamy mascarpone and espresso-soaked sponge. The coffee brought a subtle bitterness that offset the sweetness of the mascarpone, while a dusting of cocoa on top added a rich, chocolatey finish.
The Verdict
Como Garden strikes a perfect balance between elegance and warmth, offering an experience that’s as much about atmosphere as it is about the food.
For those looking to escape to Italy without leaving London, Como Garden offers a perfect little getaway with every bite.
Would I go back? Absolutely. Como Garden isn’t just a restaurant; it’s a place that feels like home, but with a little bit of Italian magic.
