This authentic Belgian restaurant chain’s South Kensington outpost offers a modern twist on moules et frites, with the emphasis placed firmly on giving the customer plenty of choice.

The Venue
Located a short walk away from either the Gloucester Road or South Kensington tube stations on Old Brompton Road, Abbaye is housed in a smart black and white building with large signage making it easy to identify. Inside, you’ll find a chic and comfortable bar area with squashy sofas and a more formal seated dining area, as well as a smart outdoor terrace for the warmer months or smokers. Designed for comfort and style rather than luxury, it is decorated in warm greens and browns with contemporary art adorning the walls.

The Atmosphere
Abbaye gives its customers an opportunity to relax and enjoy attentive service, with staff keen to explain the menu choices or talk you through the bewildering range of Belgian beers. The grinning waitresses keep it informal, leaning over to chat and smile, and are sufficiently knowledgable about the different options to make you feel you’re making an informed choice. The friendly vibe and occasional live music help attract a healthy mix of Kensington and Chelsea locals, from young hipsters drinking the night away in the bar to mature couples enjoying a meal in a quiet corner of the restaurant.

The Food
The focus here is on keeping everyone happy, and as well as the 6 different recipes for mussels, there’s a wide range of meat, duck and fish.

A favourite starter is Bitterballen, which are tasty, deep fried croquettes stuffed with spinach and salt cod with aioli. Served hot and in generous portions, these are light and delicious. Also recommended is Assiette Campagnarde, a selection of cured meats, goat’s cheese, olives and a rich and creamy chicken liver terrine. The starters are so good they’re enough if you’re just popping in at lunchtime, and are priced between £4 and £7.

The main courses are, of course, dominated by the mussel choices, with six varieties to choose from. Particularly unusual is a Thai recipe with lemon grass, chilli, ginger and coconut milk, though the standard garlic and white wines options are available too. Another well-executed dish is the Confit de Canard, a tasty duck dish served with caramelised red cabbage and an out-of-this-world sour cherry sauce. Main courses cost a very reasonable £7 to £14.

Desserts are made up of the predictable selection of waffles, crepes and tarts. The waffles with bananas and caramel sauce transport you heavenward, making the perfect light finish to the meal.

Abbaye could fall down with so much choice on the menu, but each dish is freshly prepared and lovingly executed, and the prices are very favourable for the South Kensington locale. There’s nothing too fussy either, and everyone will find something to please.

The Drink
The bar at Abbaye offers a wide range of over 25 Belgian beers, as well as fruit beers and a wide range of wines and champagne. Most popular is the Leffe Blonde, Orval and Straffe, and the fruity cheery Kriek, all priced really reasonably – a dangerous temptation given how tasty they are!

The Last Word
Abbaye provides a great choice of quality fresh food and far-too-tasty Belgian beers, in a stylish South Kensington space designed to put its customers at ease. Well worth a visit!

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