The Kitchin

The Kitchin was launched in summer 2006 in premises that were once home to The Rock & then Palourde – both decent places to eat. But it’s a case of third time lucky at this site for proprietors Tom & Michaela Kitchin, with the award of a Michelin star in early 2007. Talent-wise it was always on the cards: she has the perfect CV for running front of house in a quality establishment, while he has spent time working for superchefs such as Pierre Koffman, Guy Savoy & Alain Ducasse. The cooking emphasises fresh, seasonal ingredients & while the lunch menu sounds simple – squid to start, halibut as a main, for example – it displays an underlying complexity & real craft: the aforementioned squid is partnered by mussels & cauliflower to form a central island in a gorgeous bouillon, while the beautifully seared halibut – topped by olives, lemons & capers – sits on moist spinach with hot sauteed potato on the side. The a la carte menu has the same approach, but with wider choice, while the wine list is far from intimidating with more than half priced at £25 or under. The restaurant forms part of an old converted warehouse: you enter via a modern, airy conservatory, with the darker dining space to the rear.