The Kensington Hotel, most commonly known as The Kensi, is a popular bar and restaurant in the Eastern Suburbs. It’s a place you’ll often find fans during sporting events, brunchers for Sunday Sessions, as well as new and old friends alike enjoying their $15 lunch menu.

Recently, The Kensi’s corner bar went under renovation and we went for a visit to check out the new digs (as well as taste some of the new eats!)

Walking into The Kensi instantly reminded me of those friendly places you’d see in movies, the ones where all the locals gather and memories are made. The new renos really mirror this inclusive, rustic feel we’ve all come to know and love from a local watering hole. Perfectly suited for the space with a few modern twists, while staying authentic to The Kensi.

Another big change comes in the form of live music! The Kensi has secured their Entertainment License and it’s now proud to offer a stage where local talent can shine. Aspiring artists can get in touch with their Entertainment Manager, Jack Jericho, to enquire about playing at The Kensi, while locals can enjoy supporting their next door musicians.

We were lucky enough to experience some of this talent over a few Espresso Martinis, and it really was the perfect start to a lovely evening.

After we had sipped our beverages and soaked in all the good vibes, Lee and I sat down to taste a couple of the new menu items featured on their Corner Bar Menu.

Crispy Skin Salmon

The salmon was buttery and rich, with a seasoned crunch from the crispy skin. Underneath there was a bed of perfectly cooked black rice and roasted veggies which complimented the overall rustic flavours. Roasted beetroot, tender pumpkin and a tangy lemon tahini sauce elevated the dish, making it not only delicious, but good for you as well.

Red Wine Braised Beef Cheek

Lee enjoyed this dish all to himself, and didn’t have a single problem finishing every last bite!

“The beef was soft, delicate and thick. The meat simply fell apart and was well seasoned. The parsnip purée was smooth and creamy, and was well absorbed by the rich, hearty gravy. Fresh leeks were firm and had a lovely char flavour, with thin and crispy sweet potato chips adding a nice crunchy component.”

Chocolate Fudge Cake

Make sure you wear stretchy pants for this one, because it will be impossible not to clean your plate! A generous serve of moist chocolate cake with layers or dark ganache makes for one heck of a decedent bite. The sour cherry coulis and raspberry sorbet helped to cut through the rich flavours, bringing in beautiful balance. Yup, definitely needed stretchy pants!

The Corner Bar at The Kensi is the perfect spot for a casual beer and a fantastic meal with friends, offering comfortable vibes and the most friendly staff. Check out their Corner Bar Fridays, where cocktails are $10, it’s $10 off any bottle of wine or enjoy their $50 share plate and a jug with your pals.

Or head on over for a Sunday Session between 3pm – 6pm and take advantage of their 2 for 1 glasses of wine, $20 jugs, $10 pizzas and some incredible live music.

Words by Jamieson Eileen

WHERE: 23 Regent St, Kensington