ThePeopleAlchemist Edit: My Best Meal London - Kensington's best-kept secret: Il Portico

I love exploring London, all the little alleyways, the unknown galleries but most of all, finding new and fabulous places to eat. That's why my #MyBestMealIslington monthly feature blog started, to showcase the best places to eat in my beloved Islington, followed by #MyBestMealLondon' ( I do get out Islington sometime, believe it or not ;-)). I was recently in High Street Kensington for an event I attended and I had time to spare and I stumbled what as been once described as “Kensington’s best-kept secret", once covered by AA Gills article on the perfect Italian restaurant piece in the Sunday Times - Il Portico.

IL PORTICO

This cosy Italian restaurant is one of the oldest family-run in London, spanning 6 decades and 3 generations and, most importantly for me, delivers authentic, good value for money cooking, super delicious without being fussy, freshly made and gutsy. When you walk in, and throughout the meal, you feel like you are being looked after by your own family - plenty of "very lively Italian"interactions between staff and customers ( the restaurant is situated far down Kensington High Street, with less passing by trade and is clearly a favourite amongst locals). Il Portico Restaurant was opened in the 1960s by Pino Chaiavarini delivering regional Italian specialities ( click here for sample menu)from his home region of Emilia Romagna and beyond. I love it with its perfect balance of comfort, authentic Cucina and the very best of Italian ingredients & affordable wines, you can't go wrong. My starter was ' Fior di Zucca' (fried zucchini flowers stuffed with ricotta & anchovy, balsamic reduction), unusual but yummy and delicate at the same time followed by the 'Saltimbocca Alla Romana' which were delightful perfection. This is a perfect little place for watching the world go by, a simple meal and a nice glass of wine - perfezione totale. There is plenty to do and see in Kensington so, if you are out and about - either for business or for pleasure, why don't give it a go? This a #musttry #MyBestMealLondon Buon Appetito!