Autumn leaves at new Chelsea restaurant Maison Hana by Ameera

I was invited to try the soft-launch menu of Maison Hana by Ameera, a new Asian-Fusion restaurant on the New King's Road boasting an ex-Novikov chef. As a former Chelsea-girl (now Holland Park traitor) I couldn't resist a little trip back to my old stomping grounds.

Upon arrival - as chance would have it - who should be sitting outside on the 1970s-style Copacabana-influenced terrace but Made In Chelsea boys Angus Findlay, Freddy Knatchbull, and Jack Taylor, filming TikToks and getting their drinks down in their uniform of pale blue shirts and white chinos. I can see this becoming a spot for fancy Fulham cocktail parties, as well as the backdrop for some drama on the show.

I went with my other half, who prefers to exist in the more bohemian corners of west London, but even he was won over by the decor and vibe of the place. Forgiving the "AI-Asian" artwork, the restaurant was definitely designed and outfitted by someone with style and taste. The founder, Ameerah London, spent nearly 15 years in London's hospitality industry before opening this, and you can tell by the details. 

Maison Hana is split into four distinct spaces: the aforementioned 1970s Terrace, inspired by the glamour of old members' clubs and Italian alfresco dining; the Jade Bar, crafted from genuine jade stone; the Geisha Gallery, the main dining room surrounded by geisha-inspired artwork; and then there's where we chose to dine, a space I utterly fell in love with: the Flower Terrace.
The indoor/outdoor glass-fronted terrace, with banquette seating for couples and raised tables for large groups, looks out at Eel Brook Common. We caught it at sundown, with the leaves falling marking the beginning of autumn, and it was really spectacular. Beautifully staged, I felt like I was in a Richard Curtis rom-com, set in Paris or London. Open the sliding doors for park-fresh air on a warm late-summer eve and enjoy this hidden gem before it gets too popular.

We started with a couple of mocktails. I ordered the Kurosawa (lime, bubble gum, white peach, lemonade), and from the first sip I was intrigued. 

Beautifully presented with rose petals, the liquid had a fine buzzing fizz with an intriguing bubblegum note that I couldn't quite place until I consulted the menu again. Not synthetic at all, but oddly natural-tasting, sweet, delicate, strong and complex all at once. It truly elevated my spirits in a way that an ordinary juice would struggle to. My boyfriend went for the Norisan (passion fruit, mint, orange, pineapple) which looked fabulously exotic with its passion-fruit garnish. He was very happy with his but conceded the Kurosawa an unusual winner due to its delicate sparkle and intensely sweet and sour flavours at the same time, with plenty of bite.

Choosing some sharing dishes, we started with the Hana Bang Prawns, which were sweet, sticky and crispy. I expect these will be a firm favourite among men everywhere, as well as the Chicken Skewers which were simple, perfectly charred and juicy with a nice side touch of boiled broccoli. The Blooming Walnut Burrata was incredibly nutty and fresh but perhaps a little too cold out of the fridge for my tastes, which enhanced the milky flavour.

The Salmon Sashimi was beautifully presented on a bed of ice and most definitely of the highest quality, while the Fire Rolls were topped with a special concoction of tuna and spicy mayo and surprise caviar, which was a decadent touch.

 The chef is formerly from Novikov, so the prestige is there, and you can taste it in the quality of the ingredients. The Blooming Fish Ceviche was delicious - a combination of sea bass, tuna and yellowtail - but didn't leave as big an impression on me as the sushi and sashimi which were truly top-drawer.

A particular highlight of the night was meeting Max, who served us up truly fab non-alcoholic Espresso Martinis while regaling us with stories about his Italian grandfather founding Annabel's and his long history working with the Birley Group. It added a lovely layer of old-school London hospitality to what is otherwise a thoroughly modern dining experience. We were also attended by a lovely waitress who was keen to please, very attentive and had some great non-alcoholic drink ideas for us. It's nice to see that the staff are encouraged to be spontaneous and creative with the menu.

I would highly recommend Maison Hana for the delicious food, outstanding presentation and truly cinematic ambiance. Also, where else in London can you enjoy cocktails, sushi and cigarettes all at the same table with a panoramic view out to a park? I'm booking now for a girls-night and no one can stop me! 

To Book Maison Hana by Ameera click here

If you're planning a visit to the area, here are my top hotel stays within easy reach.

The Chelsea Townhouse near Sloane Square is luxury five-star boutique hotel across three Victorian townshouses. Part of Relais & Chateaux and Boutique Hotel Club's own collection, this unique hotel offers rare guest access to private Cadogan Gardens.

Sydney House Chelsea on Sydney Street is a discreet Georgian townhouse between Fulham Road and King's Road. Small, elegant, proper boutique feel.

Sloane Square Hotel offers four-star boutique at a more accessible price point, right on Sloane Square.

The Rockwell on Cromwell Road in South Kensington is independently owned, two converted Victorian townhouses with individually designed rooms.

To book Chelsea and Kensington hotels with our Members' Only private rate: Join the Club