September 14th, 2002 | The lowdown by Marsha Moore

A Royal Feast in The Royal Borough

London is rapidly becoming known as the best city in the world for its quality and variety of food. And nowhere is this more evident than The Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea, just west of Oxford Street.

The sheer variety in just a small square area is amazing, as are some of the prices. You'd have to be royalty to even attempt to enter some of the places that peep out behind leafy vines and low brick walls. However, shelling out the extra cash can definitely be worth it in this borough.

One of the poshest, and priciest, places in Kensington is the decadent Kensington Rooftop Gardens, just off of High Street Kensington (tube: High Street Kensington). Travel up the lift and the doors open to a whole new world - a lush rooftop garden with brilliant views across the city. If you're not up to spending a whole pay packet on dinner, try a few of their amazing cocktails!

Other delicious and less pricey options include 11 Abingdon Road, which can be found, as the name suggests, at 11 Abingdon Road, off of High Street Kensington. The minimialist decor just adds to the fresh and flavourful food, with a menu that changes daily. Up the street towards Notting Hill, Ffiona on Kensington Church Street is a great place to take a date, with its intimate, candlelit atmosphere. Fiona herself will sit with you and take your order - and good luck choosing between the homemade-style dishes! You can't go wrong here.

For less expensive options, you can try Balans (a branch of the well-known Soho restuarant) on High Street Kensington, where you should be prepared to be entertained by the antics of the gay waiters. The food is just as delightful, with everything from burgers to duck on the menu. Or, if you're in the mood for something ethnic, try the famous Churchill Arms on Kensington Church Street (tube: Notting Hill Gate) for its Thai food. Make sure you reserve in advance, as this place is notoriously hopping!

You don't have to be royalty to enjoy a true feast in this royal borough!