Crib de Rib (Restaurant)

Top 10 things to know about Crib de Rib restaurant:

1) Close to Kensington Gardens in Gloucester Road, very near the District line Tube station, this is a stunning, modern venue, somewhat reminiscent of Middle Eastern scenes involving elegant convivial dining;

2) The site is spread over two floors with a large staircase in the middle of the top level, leading to the basement. It is a strange place: grand and minimal, inspiring and contemporary. You can come here alone, as a couple or for an event since behind thick curtains are hidden large private party rooms. On the basement floor two little enclaves encourage private and romantic dinners;

3) A very grand chandelier falls just above the staircase providing a sense of sumptuousness. I feel like they strive to make you feel special here, maybe a bit too much;

4) We sit on the first floor and the beautiful all-wall windows let us observe life outside: it is entertaining and useful to resolve embarrassing situations where there isn’t much to say at dinner;

5) The restaurant wants to be famous for its hundreds of cocktails: Bitches Martini; Murmansk; Mojito Rojo - my favourite, with chilli – Round Midnight. At times though, the taste resembles more a soft drink than a real elegant cocktail;

6) The restaurant manager is entertaining and definitely knowledgeable: Caroline - from France – brings a Mediterranean “savoir” to the otherwise very neutral ambience;

7) The food: starters and sides are interesting, including addictive pizza bread called Xachapuri and a gorgeous quinoa, feta and pomegranate salad. Stay away from the carpaccio beef tartar though; it would feel like eating baby food;

8) The pièce de résistance are certainly ribs. My favourite are the pork ribs but I love the beef too. Don’t know about the meat provenience and nor does the chef who seems a bit unaware, but I don’t care, the ribs are tender and the accompanying sauces are enchanting;

9) Desserts are superb: English, Italians and more…some short on custard, others rich in fresh basil such as the pannacotta, definitely the signature dish;

10) It wants to be trendy restaurant in one of the elegant areas in London. Crib de Rib reminds me of a ‘90s experiment, mixing different genres - ribs and cocktails - so to be artistic and unusual. A good option if wanting to eat some succulent meat; not one to consider if you are desiring something really surprising!...read more