In just its 3rd week of being open Streaky Gin is already becoming the new hot spot for socialisers and foodies, so well established even our friends from across the pond want a piece of the action and have come flocking from the Big Apple.

Described perfectly on the website as a ‘British American fusion bistro’: Full of British charm and Grandeur (including a traditional red telephone box acting as a door to a secret speakeasy) in the elite location of Kensington yet bursting with an American attitude and atmosphere.

Set in the heart of the Royal Borough on Palace Gate (just east of Kensington High Street approximately 8 minutes from the station and opposite Hyde Park) Streaky Gin beckons you to enter by offering anything you need whether that’s brunch, lunch, dinner or cocktails it has it all and it’s all great! I can vouch for that as myself and a girlfriend attended for dinner on Monday night.

I began with a ‘Miami Vice’ cocktail served in a quirky jar, whilst I pondered over the menu- a mixture of white aged rum, fresh strawberries, pineapple, coconut and lime ( sort of a Strawberry Daiquiri and Pina Colada mash up – 2 great options why not mix them together?) A hard decision as the entire cocktail menu is fantastic, so many options, inventive concepts and naughty names including: cheeky monkey, morning wood, pop your cherry and leg spreader – even a daring ‘champagne and cocaine’ (rum, champagne, citrus, coconut, reduction, bitters, lime zest – served with a dollar bill!)

The menu is broken up into AM and PM as they also serve all day brunch and breakfasts.

I finally decided on tacos – even though it wasn’t the famous Taco Tuesday (£6 tacos! huge in the USA I am told and available at Streaky Gin along with a half price beer!)

Tonight’s filling was pork in a tangy sauce made from scratch accompanied by guacamole, sour cream and salsa, the fresh lime also added a satisfying coolness. Other PM main courses include burgers, nachos, roast chicken and a selection of salads whilst the AM menu consisted of a variety of breakfasts including waffles and pancakes.

Run by an amazing team including a friend of mine – Mr Sha Jen – whose British ideas have been paired perfectly with the design flair from a sassy southern American girl. Unique, fun and clever! From vibrant teal wallpaper, to a chandelier made from jars, the bar stool saddles and the telephone box door leading to a secret 1920s style speakeasy which is opening soon! Not forgetting the huge GIN sign hanging over the bar reminding you that you need to sample another cocktail!

Being so close to Hyde Park they are sole handidly bringing back the picnic basket as they are soon to be preparing party picnics to take away (and of course return the hamper!) With their license allowing them to also prepare cocktails to go!

Even the chairs have a rustic feel, each one branded with a different image, what a way to spice up a chair – I may try this at home!

What makes this place stand out besides its unique atmosphere and quirkiness is the friendliness and willingness of the staff to satisfy customers. The waiters interacted with customers and went out of their way to make conversation and ensure the customer was looked after – For example when the ‘Milk It’ cocktail was unavailable for an after dinner aperitif I was instead presented with an alternative solution in the form of  a coffee, cream and vodka concoction topped with chocolate – it is that ‘can do’ attitude that is missing from so many restaurants now a days it makes you scared to ask for any little change or interact with the staff at all!

Would you look at that, it’s Friday tomorrow! So what are you waiting for?