Umami at Crowne Plaza London Kensington

Pan Asian, Sushi·
££££
·

SquareMeal Review of Umami at Crowne Plaza London Kensington

Named after that elusive ‘fifth taste’ much revered by the foodie avant-garde, Umami at the Crowne Plaza Hotel offers user-friendly, pan-Asian cuisine for Cromwell Road’s tourists and museum trippers. Expect voguish, feng shui surrounds and a backpacking cook’s tour of Far Eastern climes, taking in Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam and Japan, with tapas-style plates in two sizes (for solo grazing or sharing). The kitchen serves up admirably executed, sustaining versions of Thai fishcakes, pandan chicken, duck with tamarind, beef rendang and the like – although these do little to fire up the taste buds. Instead try something less conventional, such as wickedly delicious lychee tempura stuffed with prawns and chicken – or take an express tour through the region with one of the admirably diverse 'Asian Journey' set menus. Tastefully subtle desserts such as homemade chilli and stem-ginger ice cream make for a refreshing finish.

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Good to know

Average Price
££££ - £30 - £49
Cuisines
Pan Asian, Sushi
Ambience
Glamorous, Luxury
Food Occasions
Dinner, Lunch
Special Features
Gluten-free options, Vegan options, Vegetarian options
Perfect for
Celebrations, Special occasions

About

Umami Restaurant, located within the luxurious Crowne Plaza Kensington, offers a refined dining experience that brings together the best of contemporary Asian flavors in a chic and modern setting. Nestled in the heart of South Kensington, Umami combines the elegance of fine dining with the bold, vibrant tastes of Asian cuisine, creating a culinary journey that delights all the senses.

The restaurant’s name, "Umami," refers to the fifth taste, which is often described as savory or meaty, and reflects the menu’s focus on rich, complex flavors. Umami’s culinary offerings are rooted in traditional Asian cooking methods, with a special emphasis on Japanese, Chinese, and Korean influences. Every dish is carefully crafted using the finest ingredients and freshest produce, ensuring a memorable dining experience.

Guests can indulge in a wide range of dishes, from expertly prepared sushi and sashimi to delicate dim sum, hearty noodle dishes, and flavorful rice plates. Umami’s menu also includes a selection of grilled meats and fish, bringing the smoky, umami-packed flavors of Asia to the table. Whether you are craving something light and fresh or indulgent and comforting, the menu caters to every taste, offering a variety of options for all preferences, including vegetarian and vegan dishes.

The stylish, contemporary ambiance of Umami makes it an ideal spot for a relaxed lunch, an intimate dinner, or a special celebration. The restaurant’s modern design, with clean lines and calming colors, provides the perfect backdrop for savoring exquisite Asian flavors in a tranquil environment.

Umami also boasts an impressive cocktail menu, featuring innovative drinks inspired by the flavors of Asia, along with a carefully selected wine list to complement the diverse dishes on offer. Whether you’re dining with friends, family, or colleagues, Umami at The Crowne Plaza Kensington provides an exceptional experience that blends tradition with innovation.

Situated in the vibrant and culturally rich South Kensington area, Umami is the perfect place to enjoy an unforgettable meal in one of London’s most desirable neighborhoods. With its exquisite food, stylish atmosphere, and impeccable service, Umami Restaurant offers a truly special dining experience that celebrates the very best of Asian cuisine.

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FAQs

Is there a private dining room?

The restaurant has a private dining room which can accommodate up to 30 guests.

Helpful? 0

Location

Crowne Plaza Hotel, 100 Cromwell Road, South Kensington, London, SW7 4ER

020 7341 2320 020 7341 2320

Website

Opening Times

Dinner
Mon 17:00-22:00
Tue 17:00-22:00
Wed 17:00-22:00
Thu 17:00-22:00
Fri Closed
Sat Closed
Sun Closed
All day
Mon Closed
Tue Closed
Wed Closed
Thu Closed
Fri 12:00-22:00
Sat 12:00-22:00
Sun 12:00-22:00

Reviews

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1 Review 
Food/Drink
Service
Atmosphere
Value

John S

25 May 2013  
Food & Drink 3
Service 1.5
Atmosphere 2
Value 2.5
Does not deliver on what it promises
First, be warned that the ambience of the restaurant is zero unless you enjoy eating in what is effectively an extension to the hotel's lobby. I think this might be acceptable for breakfast but certainly not for dinner. The menu styles itself a Pan-Asian but I would describe it more as South East Asian with an emphasis on Malaysian food. Main courses seemed to be limited to curries and noodle dishes ( more on the curries below!). We were six people and most of what we ordered was disappointing with often key ingredients missing; for example the Thai style beef salad had no fish sauce or lime juice in it and the curries (Beef Rendang, Green Chicken Curry and the Indonesian Vegetable Curry) had no coconut milk in them! The beef dish just about managed without coconut milk but the other dishes were inedible. The chicken satay was a disgrace (clearly prepared ahead of time and reheated). On the positive side the Mee Goreng was authentic and tasty with a nice spicy kick to it and both side vegetable dishes ( asparagus with yellow bean and bok choy) although served in small portions were delicious and quickly consumed by our table. Both front of the house staff and kitchen was clearly swamped. We waited more than 20 minutes before our drinks and wine were served and our starters come out close to 45 minutes after we ordered. All in all a negative experience and we will not be returning.
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