Last week the new K Bar opened its freshly polished oak panelled doors to the public; offering another reason to pay a visit to The Kensington Hotel, which makes up one of the five members of The Doyle Collection. Inspired by the tradition and heritage of the British gentlemen’s club, the bar has been cloaked in the decadence of rich oak with integrated bookcases and touches of jade greens and royal blues, this lined alongside polished brass. It is clear to see the inspiration behind this traditional concept, despite nothing new or particularly outlandish that could be expected in contrast to other attention seeking openings; The K Bar’s extremely attractive atmosphere concludes to ensure it firmly stands its ground.
Formerly of the Hotel du Vin in Brighton, Bar Manager Ben Manchester has curated the premium bar menu serving an extensive selection of premium wines, spirits and cocktails for everyone (not just the gentlemen). The evening offered a variety of both familiar and lesser-known, contemporary cocktails (with one non-alcoholic number, the Seedlip Soutside, made with Seedlip, lime juice, sugar syrup, mint leaves, juniper & apricot bitters). The glamour of the evening was encouraged by the prominence of a select number of champagne cocktails. The Tahona Fizz with Don Julio Blanco tequila, celery bitters, sugar & champagne; the Va Vo Voom, featuring Stolchinaya Vanilla, strawberry puree, pineapple juice & champagne; and a romantic favourite: the Rose Petal with Cointreau, rose syrup, lemon juice and the Kensington Champagne; featuring freshly plucked red rose petals adoring each. The K Bar’s cocktail list also goes down into the contemporary and classic varieties.
South Kensington’s newest bar which can be found nearby some of the borough’s most popular and glamorous spots, The K Bar is a well received accompaniment to the adjoining Town House restaurant at The Kensington Hotel. I’m sure the new opening of this bar will undoubtedly offer an additional dimension to the luxury hotel, and endeavour to attract and retain the attention of hotel guests and locals alike. Side by side, the sleek and sophisticated new furnishings mirror its exclusive surroundings and on reflection, the atmosphere of the evening is something I would go back for more of.
I like the fact the K Bar isn’t trying to be too trendy or unsuitably quirky. It makes an effortless bonus to this gorgeous property and celebrates British traditions that takes us back to our conventional, stiff-upper lip British routes that we are ever fond of.
K Bar is open 4pm until 11pm, seven days a week and reservations can be made by calling 020 7589 6300.
Address: 109-113 Queen’s Gate, London SW7 5LR
