5 /5 Ali: I visited Padi, located inside Medz Corner on Kensington High Street, on a relaxed evening with a friend, curious to experience their first European opening after success in Singapore and New York. The setting felt convenient and central, making it an easy choice for a casual dinner while exploring authentic Singaporean Malay cuisine in London.
On arrival, the atmosphere was warm and understated. There was a sense of authenticity in the setup, and it felt like a place focused more on food and experience than presentation alone.
We began with a selection of curry puffs, which set a strong tone for the meal. The sardine version had a rich, savoury depth, while the potato puff stood out for its balance. The pastry was light and flaky, breaking apart easily, while the filling was warm and comforting without being overly heavy. It was a simple dish done well and immediately reassuring in terms of quality.
The highlight of the evening was the Nasi Ambeng set. This generous platter included steamed white rice, sambal goreng, beef rendang, serunding, begedil, ayam lemak chilli padi, sambal udang, sambal belacan, terong balado, and urap. Each component brought a different texture and flavour, from the richness of the beef rendang to the spice and brightness of the sambals. The variety made it easy to build balanced bites, and the portion size felt appropriate for sharing. We also tried the lontong, which was well-prepared and paired nicely with the deeply flavoured beef rendang, a dish that stood out for its tenderness and slow-cooked depth.
Service throughout the visit was attentive and efficient. Staff were approachable, happy to explain dishes, and ensured that everything arrived at a comfortable pace. The menu was clear enough to navigate, even for those less familiar with Singaporean Malay cuisine, and the team created a welcoming environment without being intrusive. Ending the meal with Teh Tarik was a good decision. It was smooth, slightly sweet, and offered a calming finish to a flavourful meal, making it one of the must-try drinks at Padi London.
This is a place that would suit small groups, couples, or anyone interested in exploring regional Southeast Asian food in a relaxed setting. It works particularly well for an early evening meal or a casual weekend visit when you have time to share dishes and enjoy the variety on offer.
Overall, Padi delivers a reliable and satisfying dining experience. The food feels considered and authentic, the service is consistent, and the setting is comfortable. I would return to explore more of the menu and would recommend it to anyone seeking a grounded introduction to Singaporean Malay flavours in London.
