Paradise by way of Kensal Green (The Paradise)

Words by Simon Difford

Address: 19 Kilburn Lane, (corner Regent St), London, W10 4AE, United Kingdom
Tel: +44 (0)20 8969 0098
Email: clem@thecolumbogroup.com
Website: view Paradise by way of Kensal Green (The Paradise)’s website
Door: Open door
Style: Pub (Contemporary pub)
Food: Set menu
Established: 2007

Review

Paradise by way of Kensal Green
Built in 1892, this pub takes its name from a line in the G.K Chesterton poem, The Rolling English Road, which opposes the prohibition of alcohol and references nearby Victorian Kensal Green cemetery. This is very much a local's place - catering for their every need - modern British meals served in the restaurant, quiet boozer early week to hip hop come live music nights on Friday and Saturday evenings.

This huge Victorian building houses a lounge bar at the front leading to a large dining room and outside areas beyond. Above sit two first floor event spaces. The impressive red brick and stone façade sits proudly on its corner site with an angel looking down on the passers-by below. Inside the gothic interior references the nearby cemetery with stone angel statues, religious iconography, velvet drapes, floral wallpapers, distressed half-height panelling and stained glass windows. Louis XIV style furniture and Venetian chandeliers add to the almost theatrical appearance.

The drinks offering runs to 19 wines by the glass and a cocktail menu. The beer selection is somewhat limited and availability of cask conditioned ale somewhat patchy. We have been impressed by the food here and Sunday roasts are excellent.