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Apero Restaurant & BarB+Worth Trying

Name: Apero Restaurant & Bar
Address: 2 Harrington Rd, South Kensington, London SW7 3ER, London SW7 3ER, United Kingdom
Rating: 4.4

2 Harrington Rd, South Kensington, London SW7 3ER · Bar, Mediterranean restaurant, Breakfast restaurant · 4.4/5 Google (401 reviews)

Reservations

Apero Restaurant & Bar delivers creative Mediterranean fare and whimsical afternoon teas in a stylish hotel basement setting, with standout service and a price tag to match.

Why it gets a B+ for overall quality

Apero delivers a compelling experience through attentive, friendly service, stylish interior design, and the distinctive Jurassic Afternoon Tea that makes it a destination for special occasions and families. However, inconsistent food quality and service reliability, particularly during busy periods, prevents it from reaching grade A territory. The experience justifies the premium pricing for themed occasions, though portions and value remain points of contention for regular diners.

Restaurant Summary

Apero Restaurant & Bar, tucked beneath the Ampersand Hotel in South Kensington, is a stylish hideaway that blends Mediterranean flavors with British breakfast classics and a dash of theatrical flair. The Jurassic Afternoon Tea is a particular highlight, drawing families and foodies alike for its playful presentation—think edible mountains, dinosaur chocolates, and a touch of dry ice magic. The ambiance is cozy and contemporary, with attentive staff who make guests feel welcome, whether they're hotel guests or locals seeking a special treat. Culinarily, Apero leans into creative comfort food with Mediterranean influences, offering everything from a well-executed Full English to inventive themed teas. The menu is broad enough to satisfy both traditionalists and adventurous eaters, with gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan options available. While some diners find the portions on the smaller side and the prices steep, most agree that the quality and experience justify the splurge for special occasions. The restaurant's playful approach and attention to detail make it a destination for birthdays, family outings, and anyone looking to add a little whimsy to their meal. For families, Apero is a standout. The kids' menu features familiar favorites like Full English and pancakes, and the staff go out of their way to accommodate young diners—one reviewer even thanked the team for their kindness to their son. Themed teas are a hit with children and adults alike, and the relaxed, welcoming vibe means parents can enjoy their meal without worry. Menu data confirms a strong selection of kid-friendly and dietary-inclusive options, making this a safe bet for groups with diverse needs.

At a Glance

Whimsical Jurassic Afternoon Tea is a must-try for families and themed event lovers.
Attentive, friendly service and stylish, comfortable setting.
Portions can be small and prices are on the higher side for the area.
Creative/fusion menu - not traditional comfort food.
Limited parking; best accessed by public transit.

What Sets It Apart

themed_afternoon_tea
creative_presentation
family_friendly_events

What People Love

Themed afternoon teas that delight both kids and adults
Attentive, friendly staff who go the extra mile
Inventive, beautifully presented dishes
Stylish, cozy ambiance perfect for special occasions
Dietary accommodations for gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan guests

Points of Concern

Pricing is genuinely expensive (£59pp for afternoon tea, £12.50-£18 mains), which may surprise casual diners.
Portion sizes are on the smaller side, especially for mains and afternoon tea.
Service can be inconsistent during busy periods, with occasional slowdowns or inflexible responses.
Limited options for conservative palates or picky eaters due to creative/fusion menu.

Service & Dining Experience

Service StyleTable Service Average Cost£28-38 per person ReservationsRecommended

What to Order

Opt for the Jurassic Afternoon Tea for a memorable experience—vegetarian and gluten-free versions available.
Families should consider the kids' breakfast menu for approachable options.
Try the ricotta pancakes or Full English for a satisfying breakfast.

Perfect For

Celebrating a birthday or special occasion with kids
Afternoon tea enthusiasts seeking a unique experience
Hotel guests looking for a high-quality breakfast or brunch
Families or groups with dietary restrictions

Location Insights

Area: Upscale, cosmopolitan, and family-friendly area with a mix of locals, tourists, and business travelers. South Kensington is known for museums, boutique hotels, and stylish cafes.

Safety: Very safe, well-lit, and high foot traffic, especially during the day. Evenings remain lively due to hotel and restaurant activity.

Nearby: Close to the Natural History Museum, Science Museum, and V&A. Surrounded by hotels, shops, and residential buildings.

South KensingtonAn elegant, culturally rich neighborhood featuring world-class museums, prestigious educational institutions, and sophisticated dining options. Known for its refined atmosphere and proximity to major cultural landmarks like the Victoria and Albert Museum and Imperial College.

Museum QuarterA concentrated area of cultural institutions, featuring high-end restaurants, academic venues, and a cosmopolitan dining scene with international culinary offerings.

Practical Information

Opening Hours

Monday07:00–10:30, 12:00–15:00, 18:00–22:00 Tuesday07:00–10:30, 12:00–15:00, 18:00–22:00 Wednesday07:00–10:30, 12:00–15:00, 18:00–22:00 Thursday07:00–10:30, 12:00–15:00, 18:00–22:00 Friday07:00–10:30, 12:00–15:00, 18:00–22:00 Saturday07:00–11:00, 11:30–15:00, 18:00–22:00 Sunday07:00–11:00, 11:30–15:00, 18:00–22:00

Available: Reservations

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