The Earl Derby, Kilburn

There is not a lot to be said about the positive effects of gentrification. There is plenty of remonstrating about an area’s rents going up, the forcing out of local businesses and how the character of a particular patch of London evaporating as soon as the wine bars, coffee chains and Tesco Metro move in to the high street. It seems ungallant and terribly un-British to admit that an area could do with a bit of brushing up and that it might be nice to have a few options open to you rather than simply choosing between the name of the American state that goes before Fried Chicken. Will it be Ohio, Kansas or Alabama? The tension, as well as the food, is unbearable.

One area of London that could do with a bit of variety is Kilburn. You might have passed through it on occasion whilst on your way to Maida Vale or to Edgware Road. I don’t mean to sound elitist about the place but I do realise that is exactly how it is coming across in the words that I am typing. It’s a drab place with its high street beset by every cliche of Clone Town Britain with bookies, charity shops and fast food outlets offering a repetitive triplet of diminished expectations.

Thank heavens then for the Early Derby which had an extensive revamp this year. It has the capacity by which to have every right to dominate the high street, offering a relaxed feel with a welcoming interior. The food is of a high standard too with a regularly updated menu and with a well thought out drink selection to boot.

There are many grumbles to be had about how London’s high streets are losing their character. Therefore, it would do us well to appreciate places like the Earl Derby which are aiming to put a little personality into places that could really do with smartening up.

The Earl Derby
155 Kilburn High Street
Kilburn
NW6 7HU

Tel: 0207 625 2618