Discover the Korean BBQ everyone is flocking to in South Kensington

When my wife, our food-loving baby Xavier, and I recently visited KGK in South Kensington to try the Korean Chef’s Feast Menu, we were anticipating an evening of culinary exploration. What we experienced exceeded our expectations, offering a genuine immersion into Korean culture through food.

Located in the elegant surroundings of the Millennium Hotel, KGK Kensington is a sophisticated yet welcoming spot, ideal for a family outing or a special date night. The restaurant’s décor subtly hints at its Korean roots, combining modern design with traditional elements that set the stage for a memorable dining experience.

Our evening began with the Chef’s Feast Menu, a celebration of Korean culinary tradition, which started with ‘sang cha lim’—a beautifully presented array of eight seasonal specialties. The selection included classic dishes like namul (seasoned vegetables) and bibim noodles, which were bursting with fresh flavours. The highlight for me was the beef broth which was perfectly seasoned and provided a comforting start to the meal. My wife particularly enjoyed the yuzu salad, which offered a refreshing citrus twist, balancing the richness of other dishes.

One unique aspect of dining at KGK is the in-built tabletop grills at each table, which allow for an interactive BBQ experience. The expert staff are there to guide you through the grilling process, ensuring each cut of meat is cooked to perfection. We tried the KGK cut of the day, anchangsal (beef skirt), and the 35 day aged ribeye—a diamond-cut short rib marinated for 48 hours in KGK’s signature sauce. The meat was succulent and was enhanced by the restaurant’s trio of house-made sauces. The grilling process itself was a delightful spectacle, with the grill being heated and greased meticulously (with a piece of beef fat) before the meat and vegetables were laid out to sizzle.

The menu also offers traditional accompaniments like steamed rice, soup, and a ssam platter of leafy vegetables perfect for wrapping the BBQ meats. Each bite was an explosion of textures,  from the crispness of the vegetables to the tender, juicy meat.

The culinary journey didn’t stop there. The dessert options at KGK are as intriguing as the main courses. We tried the soybean ice cream, which was a surprising treat—creamy, with a distinct nutty flavor that left a lingering sweetness on the palate.

Dining at KGK Kensington was more than just a meal; it was an experience that celebrated the depth and diversity of Korean cuisine. The combination of traditional dishes with the interactive grilling made for an engaging and unique evening of culinary joy. The staff’s attention to detail, from guiding us through the grilling process to ensuring our baby boy was comfortable, added a personal touch that made our visit truly memorable.

Xavier approves of the Korean Chef’s feast

For anyone seeking a unique dining experience that blends culinary artistry with cultural immersion, KGK Kensington is a must-visit. Whether you’re new to Korean cuisine or a seasoned aficionado, the Chef’s Feast Menu at KGK is a delightful journey through the heart of Korean food, right in the heart of London.

7*Life readers can quote ‘IG10’ at the restaurant to get 10% off your meal

Mitra Msaad

Editor in Chief