Restaurant Review: KIN, Clerkenwell

KIN (meaning ‘eat’ in Thai) is a brand new Pan-Asian street-food restaurant in the heart of Clerkenwell.

Abiding by the philosophy of healthy and fresh ingredients at affordable prices, KIN serves local delicacies from Thailand, Vietnam, Japan & China, with specials from as far east as Singapore & Indonesia.

The first element to this new fusion restaurant that strikes you is the wonderfully quirky décor, which immediately makes you feel relaxed and comfortable. The open brick walls are eccentrically decorated with a collage of adornments, from vintage mirrors to draw-fronts, whilst the modern hanging lights illuminate the small but perfectly formed dining room.

Both the untreated wooden floors and humble tables add to the community feel, and the overall simplicity is a refreshing and modern take on what is a rather common eatery.

The food itself is flavoursome and fresh and caters to all tastes and requirements, whether it is light snacks, sharers, or main meals that you’re after. Highlights include quick bites such as Bun Cha (tasty mini chargrilled pork with lettuce, rice vermicelli, and daikon), classic chicken satay, and the crispiest hoisin duck spring rolls around.

Main meals include Malaysian fried rice dish Nasi Goreng, Thai favourite Pad Thai, and Wonton dumplings, all available to takeaway in attractive packaging.

For lunchtime diners KIN has redesigned the classic baguette Vietnamese style, with varieties such as three-types of pork and roast duck.

A welcome addition to the menu is the vast choice of vegetarian and gluten-free options, born out of the owner’s own dietary requirements and healthy living.

In addition to various alcoholic beverages including Saki, KIN has teamed up with Asian tea specialists Canton Tea Co., a specialist in high-grade, whole leaf artisan teas. Options include jasmine, white, green and oolong, each having their own unique and distinct flavour that compliments the dishes.

Overall, KIN restaurant fulfils what it sets out to achieve; a casual and light-hearted dining experience with unpretentious and heartening food. It’s perfect for both lunch on-the-go and dinner with friends, and I would highly recommend a visit.

Words: Katie Grange

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