Kudu expands its Marylebone footprint with Smokey Kudu, a new cocktail lounge and private dining space that builds on the South African-inspired restaurant’s celebrated ethos. Since relocating from South London earlier this year, Kudu has embraced the city’s spirit, offering an experience that balances bold flavours with stylish design.
The cocktail programme is curated by head bartender Brian Tapera,and brings South African influences to 15 serves. Highlights include the Kalahari Sunset, blending pisco, apricot brandy, passionfruit and apple, and the Cape Old Fashioned, a reimagined classic mixing brandy, frangelico, cherry heering, fernet branca and chocolate bitters. Then there’s the Wild Mary, a mushroom-infused mezcal twist on the Bloody Mary, alongside returning favourites such as the South London Paloma, Saffa Rita, and Braai Negroni.
Non-alcoholic options mirror the same creativity, from a guava-forward Virgin Paloma to the tropical Kudu Thai. Wine enthusiasts are catered for with a curated selection of South African vintages, available by the glass or bottle, and a concise cellar list featuring sought-after European labels including Château Mouton Rothschild Pauillac 2006.
Bar snacks offer an extension of Kudu’s seasonal European menu with a South African twist. Guests can sample house-cured Kalahari spiced biltong, oysters with tomato dashi and wakame, grilled artichoke with gremolata, and smoked prawn cruller with miso, pickled cucumber and dill. Each plate complements the bold drinks programme.
Designed with input from Kudu co-founder Amy Corbin and London-based Fabled Studio, Smokey Kudu blends intimacy and understated opulence. The space features red clay walls, berry-toned carpeting, marble details, a statement fireplace and plush furnishings. Artwork by South African artist Tamary Kudita adds a cultural touch, while a dedicated private dining room accommodates up to 12 guests, offering feasting-style menus for celebratory gatherings or quiet dinners.
Smokey Kudu establishes itself as a destination for both adventurous cocktails and refined social experiences, where flavour, design, and conviviality intersect in the heart of Marylebone.
@kudurestaurant
@fabled_studio
Smokey Kudu London Photography, Patricia Nivens.
