Maggie Jones’s is hard to stumble on. If you happen to, I'd say you're a treasure hunter who found the hidden gem. Tucked away at the end of a side street that leads to nowhere, this South Kensington restaurant is worth seeking out.. again and again. Outside a chalkboard exclaims delight at welcoming us back into folds of communal dining. Crossing the threshold you enter a world that invites you to leave your cares behind, take a seat and be prepared to be romanced.
I love how this local article captures the experience: "The food is only a small part of the reason that Maggie Jones's quickly feels like the kind of place you're going to have a real problem leaving. When you first walk in you're not sure if you've stumbled upon a hoarder's dream or the set of Poldark. There are baskets of dried-out flowers, saddles, and the odd tin watering can all hanging from the ceiling. And every available surface is covered in candles. You'll either fear you've found the stash house of The Great Rocking Horse Robbery of 1922 and flee in a panic, or be entirely willing to overlook any potential fire hazards, and love it in all of its cozy, twee, home county glory." (The Infatuation publication)
The heart of the restaurant sits one floor above street level. I was led to a table by an open window where I could have a panoramic view of the space. Once seated, crudités with a creamy herb dressing along with thick crusty bread & salted butter is there to meet you. I commence people watching which is what you're left with when dining solo. This was the perfect spot for just that.
I could go on about how perfect the food was (the I could go on about how perfect the food was (the cheesy onion soup - to die for) or how even the least romantic of a person would be a convert after spending a few hours in its embrace. Rather it was the music & the conversations I overheard that held me captivated. The 50s & 60s soul music set the tone while people were transported to "remember when" moments of their yesteryears. Lingering long into the night, I shared in these memories.. my heart (and belly) full that even in the worst of times, we can still have the best of time.
Tip: Make sure to book ahead of time. Especially on weekend.
