Kino brings modern Japanese cuisine with European influences to South Kensington under chef Pavel Baranovs

New Japanese restaurant Kino, led by Chef Pavel Baranovs, has just opened its doors today on Draycott Avenue in South Kensington, London. The 70-seat establishment aims to bring a modern interpretation of Japanese cuisine to the area, combining traditional techniques with locally sourced ingredients and European influences. The restaurant’s launch marks the culmination of Chef Baranovs’ recent travels in Japan and years of culinary exploration, with a focus on seasonality, provenance, and a restrained approach to flavour.

The menu at Kino is shaped by the changing seasons, with ingredients selected at their peak to maximise flavour, aroma and colour. The restaurant offers a range of dishes, including an extensive selection of nigiri and sashimi, and places emphasis on ethical sourcing and head-to-tail cooking. Fermentation also plays a significant role, with recurring elements such as barley miso, kimchi, yuzu, spring onion and bluefin tuna.

Menu highlights include Wagyu Udon Soup with noodles, bamboo shoots, spring onion and shiitake; Tapioca Marshmallow with shio konbu, ocopa cream and furikake; Imperial Black Cod glazed in sweet yuzu miso; and Australian Wagyu Sirloin served with caramelised onion purée. Desserts feature options such as Matcha Tiramisu with Suntory whisky and matcha ladyfingers, Yuzu Cheesecake with yuzu curd and winter fruits, and a rotating selection of handcrafted mochi in seasonal flavours.

Chef Pavel Baranovs describes his vision for the restaurant as one where Japanese technique is combined with a broader, more personal perspective. “Kino is about clarity and intention. I wanted to create a place where Japanese technique meets a broader, more personal point of view, where flavour is bold but controlled, and every ingredient is used with respect. It’s about stripping things back, focusing on seasonality, fermentation and provenance, and letting the food speak for itself,” Baranovs said.

The interior of Kino was designed by Studio APAA, featuring natural materials such as timber, stone, and textured plaster. The space is intended to evoke a sense of calm and intimacy, with low lighting and custom joinery. The design draws on both Japanese minimalism and European warmth, aiming for understated elegance and a focus on craftsmanship.

Food Desk

Kino is located at 96 Draycott Avenue. For further information and reservations, visit the restaurant’s website here.