Kudu, the South African restaurant that made its name in Peckham, has relocated to Marylebone, raising questions about whether it can retain its homespun charm in a more upmarket setting. The new venue, described as ‘London’s prettiest restaurant of 2025 so far’, features campfire lighting, pink and peach textures, and an open braai. However, the move has come at a cost: Kudu’s other ventures – Kudu Grill, Smokey Kudu and Curious Kudu – have been amalgamated into this single, larger operation.
Upon arrival, the bread with curried butter immediately stands out. Served warm with melted, glossy butter and fried curry leaves, it is described as an ‘eat-as-if-no-one’s-watching’ starter. Other options include house-cured bacon and shrimp butter with almonds. The braai menu includes confit trout with crisp skin and sea veg, a pork chop with ‘monkey gland’ sauce (a sweet chutney-ketchup hybrid), and king prawns with peri peri sauce. Sides such as beef-fat fingerling potatoes and charred sugar snaps in walnut sauce complement the dishes.
The Sunday lunchtime service was busy, with diners including families and old Kudu customers. The atmosphere was buzzy, with orders of Kalahari biltong and Saffa Ritas (tequila, chilli, Supasawa and Cointreau). A dessert called ‘Kudu kit kat’ offers rich chocolate mousse with kumquats and marshmallows, toasted tableside with hot irons. Despite the upscale location, the restaurant has maintained its earthy, live-fire approach and extensive South African wine list.
