Kingly Court, Carnaby Street
The hidden gem that is Kingly Court, just off Carnaby Street, has been relaunched as a boutique food destination, a classy and tasty oasis just yards from the tourist bustle of Regent Street.
Three levels of unique little shops and cutting-edge cafes, restaurants and bars all in a courtyard environment make for an unexpected and pleasing retreat, and although the place is buzzy, it also feels calm and uncrowded. Best of all, during the summer months, the roof is removed entirely for an alfresco experience.
The focus here is on independents and entrepreneurial newbies, not big chains – you’ll find the recently-opened second outpost of Pizza Pilgrims rather than just another Pizza Express. James and Thom Elliott have extended their range of authentically artisan pizzas to include a couple of deep fried calzone, as found in Naples. Their Friggitoria range also has little cups of deep-fried artichoke hearts and macaroni cakes. Old favourites are still on the menu of course, cooked in their Naples-built oven – the ‘Njuda being the standout one for me, made with Calabrian spicy sausage and absolutely heavenly! Other food options are a branch of the Rum Kitchen; Whyte & Brown, who specialise in chicken and craft beer; a new outpost for Wright Brothers Oyster House; and Stax, a new southern American comfort-food diner.
It’s not all indulgence though, with the Detox Kitchen ‘Pure Goodness’ juice recommend, Retreat Café being a good place post your yoga session at Triyoga, and Camellia being good place to have a civilised cup of tea in soothing surroundings.
With regards to boutiques, you can try on a hat at Atelier Millinery, buy some handmade toys at Carry Me Home, have a makeover at The Beauty Lounge or buy a vintage wedding dress at Fur Coat No Knickers. You can even get your hair cut or have a back rub.
Kingly Court is open from dawn to the early hours, so you can get your morning smoothie, midday brunch, dinner, before enjoying a few cocktails and a boogie without even leaving. And given that the Carnaby district is a step away with its own amazing range of boutiques, one-offs and pop ups, you really have a great destination that gives you top quality and choice in a handsome environment.
Kingly Court can be found at the southern end of Carnaby Street, bounded by Kingly Street, Beak Street and Ganton Street.
Kingly Court
Carnaby Street
Soho
W1B 5PW
http://www.carnaby.co.uk/food-and-drink/kingly-court