Stuck in London

[Aristide]

I assume that by your reference to "next year" the smoke police have decided that it is better for us not to smoke indoors, correct? When will this take effect and what will be the restrictions? Also, as a side note, we had a drink at the Connaught and I was very disappointed with the service and general ambiance, though "your mileage may vary." Thank you for the information.

[whittaker]

The ban is due in summer 2007. I support the original plan to ban smoking in places where food is being served. Extending the ban to all indoor public places is draconian, particularly as it includes public members' clubs. There may be some leeway in hotels but I am not hopeful.

The Connaught peaked several years ago. I would not consider going there today. There is an institutional malaise at the Connaught that will be difficult to remedy.

[alden]

Gents,

Any advice for pubs, eateries or Indian restos in the area of Kensington High Street tube station?

Thanks

[preobrazhensky]

The Windsor Castle on top of the hill on Campden Hill Road is probably the nicest pub in the area. The Elephant and Castle on Holland Street is very near the station, recently slightly refurbished and not as nice as it used to be, but still quiet on an afternoon. Neither of these pubs play music, a bonus I'm sure you'll agree, and rare nowadays.
South of Kensington High Street all the pubs seem to have undergone trendy renovation and few have any recognisable atmosphere. I might have missed one though!

Quite good Thai restaurant called Thai Origin on Kensington Church Street, on the first bend at the High Street end. At the Notting Hill end of Kensington Church Street Kensington Place is reliable and very good, but it is also bright and noisy, it depends what you are looking for.

Indian restaurants... Zaika is on the High Street, very close to the station, opposite the beginning of the park. It is good, undoubtedly, but very disappointing compared to the Cinnamon Club and similarly priced. If I were you I would venture a little further north across Notting Hill Gate to The Durbar on Hereford Road (just by Westbourne Grove), it is less ambitious, but certainly better value and more satisfying.

[jklu]

The Windsor Castle and the Churchill Arms on Kensington Church St (with an adjoining Thai restaurant) are my two preferred pubs in that area. The former is more relaxed and conducive to conversation, the latter perpetually packed to the gills.

In that area Zaika is the standout Indian restaurant, though it has slipped a bit. Clarke's, across from the Churchill Arms, is always wonderful, and the hearty and cozy Maggie Jones's (Old Court Place) is just right in this weather.

[preobrazhensky]

I forgot before, but your best bet for Indian food might be The Malabar on Uxbridge Street (one road north of Notting Hill Gate). Nearer than Durbar, the food is lighter and it is quiet and intimate. Nice place, especially if Zaika feels like it is trying too hard. I haven't been for a while though, but it still looks popular.