Zaika
South Kensington
by PlanetBrunch Published 2 years ago
Elegant Brunch in a Historic Gem
Brunch in London doesn’t always have to mean sourdough and flat whites. Sometimes, it's about rich spices, bold flavours, and dining in a space that feels like a piece of history. That's exactly what we found at Zaika, in South Kensington.
Nestled across from Hyde Park on Kensington High Street, Zaika sits inside a stunning Grade II listed building. Originally built in 1884 to house London City Bank, the structure is full of grand arches, carved stone, and gothic revival details. It's been lovingly restored, and walking through the doors feels like stepping into another era – only with better food.
We took a stroll through nearby Kensington Gardens before our meal. It was cold but not raining, and the peaceful vibe of the neighbourhood made it a great way to start the day. The area is quiet, clean, and feels safe – perfect for a weekend walk before brunch.
Inside, the atmosphere is warm and inviting. The space is elegant but not stuffy. Rich wood tones, soft lighting, and beautiful artwork create a setting that feels both stylish and comfortable. There's a calm energy to the place, even when it gets busy.
We were seated quickly by a friendly team who made us feel welcome right away. Service was smooth and relaxed, and our food came out fast without ever feeling rushed.
Zaika's menu leans into Indian heritage with a modern twist. This isn't your usual brunch lineup, and we loved that. The dishes are made with care and full of flavour, and each one arrived looking beautiful.
We started with the House Lassi, a creamy blend of yoghurt, peach, vanilla, hibiscus, and cinnamon. It was refreshing and slightly sweet – a great way to ease into the meal.
Our first dish was the Baked Vegetable Samosa. Flaky pastry filled with spiced potatoes, onion, and green peas. Crispy on the outside, soft and tangy inside – absolutely delicious.
Next came the Hyderabadi Lamb Biryani, a standout. It arrived in a warm pot, filled with fragrant basmati rice and tender Welsh lamb. The spices were bold but balanced. Each bite was rich, comforting, and full of depth.
We finished with the Fort Kochi Prawn Curry, served with Naan bread for dunking. The sauce was tomato-based, spicy, and incredibly flavourful. The prawns were perfectly cooked, and the Naan soaked up every last drop.
Everything was well presented and tasted fresh. There was clear attention to detail across the whole meal, from the way dishes were plated to the perfect timing of each course.
We didn't have a single complaint. The only warning? Come hungry. The portions are generous, and you'll want to try more than one dish.
Prices are mid-range and feel fair for the quality. You can reserve a table online, which we recommend, especially on weekends.
Zaika is perfect for a casual-but-special meal with a friend, a relaxed date, or even a quiet business lunch. It hits that sweet spot between formal and friendly. We left full, happy, and already planning to return.
If you're after a brunch that's a little different, a little spicier, and set in one of the most beautiful rooms in West London – Zaika is the place.
