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Let me begin by stating that we typically do not look to book Michelin-starred dining options when we are on vacation, we had a few booked on our honeymoon and decided to never do it again as it simply wasn't for us. However, it is worth noting that a true Michelin experience in Europe is on a much higher level than in the United States. On any trip to Europe, I think one Michelin experience is more than enough and this is definitely your answer for London!
The majority of the time we like to try and explore more of the family run spots or restaurants that the locals frequent. However, there has been one particular restaurant that we have been eager to visit for some time and we were fortunate enough to finally have the opportunity during our recent visit to London. Core by Clare Smyth is located in Notting Hill on Kensington Park Road, situated in an unassuming yet stylish building that resembles a meticulously maintained house. The experience was so fantastic that it deserves its own post.
Upon arrival, the team warmly greeted us and invited us to enjoy an aperitif at the bar. Since we had made a late reservation, we chose to be seated to start our meal not before being seated in the lively yet not overwhelming dining room, we had a brief look at the kitchen. The decor featured calming and stylish colors, with each table decorated with small bunches of fresh wildflowers.
While browsing the menus, there were three in total, we each made our selections.
Core Seasons
Core Classics
Core A La Carte
Every dish was executed with creativity, not just focusing on style but also ensuring that the flavors and textures were well-balanced. The selection of our amuse bouche was exceptional, with each bite surpassing the previous one, yet the highlight was undoubtedly the caviar sandwich.
Comprising of 7 courses, the menus offer numerous delightful surprises throughout, so it is more like 10 - 12 courses if you count each bite. As a wine enthusiast like myself, you will probably be reluctant to return the wine menu once in your possession, as each page is more interesting than the next. The sommelier was on hand if you needed him but he wasn't overbearing which can often be the case. We started with some Billecart Salmon Rosé champagne & moved onto Chablis for the rest of the meal.
Each member of the team was warm and treated each guest with care, as we mentioned to the team looking after us that we are in the hospitality business we were lucky enough to meet Chef and snag a pic with her.
Key highlights from the experience:
There was so much attention to detail from start to finish
If provided with sufficient notice, they accommodate allergies (which is a significant advantage as most restaurants of this quality do not cater to allergies).
Don't sleep on the Chefs table, on our next visit we plan to reserve the chef's table, located directly outside the kitchen and great for a group of foodies celebrating something special.
The kitchen was immaculate and everyone and everything seemed under control, if you are looking for an egotistical chef outburst this is not the place for you.
This was one of the most memorable meals we have had while traveling so I wanted to share it with you and give it the kudos it deserves.
Bon Appetit,
Keva xx
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