Iconic 61-year-old restaurant is finally back in London (it’s named after a royal secret)

A beloved restaurant is making its return to London, and will start serving customers again by summer.

The iconic Maggie Jones, a stalwart of the Kensington food scene since 1964, was forced to close in August 2023, after an electrical fire broke out.

But now, a message on their website reveals fans won’t have to wait much longer to book a table.

‘Repairs are currently taking place and we look forward to welcoming you back before summer 2025,’ it reads. ‘Thank you for your patience and loyalty.’

While no exact date has been announced, its good news for fans of the bistro, which serves up classic English favourites in mismatched crockery and silver-ware.

Why does Maggie Jones have a royal connection?

Tucked away in West London, Maggie Jones looks like a British farmhouse.

There are woven baskets stuffed with flowers hanging from the ceilings, and empty wine bottles hold candles on each table.

But it actually started life 61 years ago as Nan’s Kitchen — and it’s name change is all thanks to Princess Margaret .

When the late Queen’s sister discovered the eatery, she would book under the alias Maggie Jones. It meant that no one was alerted to the arrival of royalty, and she could eat in peace.

The Princess became such a frequent customer that in the 1970s, the restaurant was renamed in her honour.

The story goes that the glamorous Princess would often slip into the restaurant at 9.30pm, and eat at her table on the ground floor. The wooden booths are quite enclosed, offering privacy when needed.

Often joined by her husband, Lord Snowdon, two portraits were hung up of the couple, although it’s not known if they survived the fire.

What kind of food is served at Maggie Jones?

The restaurant sits in a culd-de-sac between Kensington High Street and Kensington Church Street.

It serves British classics and offerings include roast pork belly, sirloin steak, steak and kidney pie, sausage and mash and, of course, Maggie’s fish pie.

The menu is on the pricier side, with the most expensive main costing £35.

There is however a budget friendly option of a set lunch and dinner menu with two courses for £34 or three courses for £38 too.

And, at the weekend, you can enjoy the Sunday lunch menu, where diners can choose from steak, lamb, pork belly, chicken, salmon and a nut roast, it starts at £24.50.

What do customers say about Maggie Jones?

Customers seem to have nothing but glowing reviews. Sue Yeti wrote on Tripadvisor: ‘A treasure of a place and a truly fabulous find. Great ambience, decor and food…

‘So so sad it’s closed. Please hurry and repair as we are banging on your door!’

Another said: ‘The atmosphere is cosy perfection. It felt chic British inside and the food was the kind you dream about eating again.’

So, fancy dining like royalty?

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