Maia Knightsbridge

**This restaurant is now closed**

Maia Knightsbridge is the latest addition on Hans Crescent. A chic Italian brasserie and patisserie that is perfect for any time of the day. From breakfast to dinner, afternoon tea or after-work drinks, Maia is apt for any occasion.

Ambiance 

The decor at Maia Knightsbridge is classy and subtle with stylish 60’s artwork dotted around. The lighting is warm and the ambiance is relaxing – just how Maia wants it to be. Maia is in a prime location, surrounded by high street and high-end shops (including Harrods which is opposite ). With floor to ceiling windows in the front of the brasserie, it is an apt location to people-watch while sipping on the coffee or cocktail.

Dotted around the brasserie, are cuddly red bears that provide the perfect company during the meal, especially when dining solo.

You can expect a first-class service from the staff. From the excellent mixologist to the friendly servers, you are sure to have a comfortable effortless time at Maia. Your happiness is their happiness.

From 5pm, they have a resident DJ, Sam Starks,  who plays smooth sounds to take you into the night and get you in the #maiamood.

Food

The brasserie offers a wide selection of dishes. From that creamy burrata to succulent fish dishes to hearty pasta, there is something for everyone. They cook with seasonal ingredients which keeps their menu fresh. If you have a sweet tooth look no further because they serve the most delicious cakes at Maia.

For those who are after lighter dishes and prefer mindful eating, Maia’s wellness advocate, Francesca Giacomini’s (The  Method) has created some dishes on the menu.

Appetizers & Starters

When we arrived, we were greeted with Deli boards with chunks of parmesan, cured meat, crispy bread and juicy olives. Once seated, we had a selection of starters to share once we were seated.

Creamy Burrata with juicy tomatoes, all drizzled with basil and extra virgin oil, Crispy Calamari with spicy mayo and jalapeños and some light Avo-Crab smash bites which came on toasted gluten-free bread. Simply scrumptious.

We shared the classic Penne Arrabbiata, which had the correct balance of tomato sauce and chilli. Maia’s speciality Saffron Risotto could not be missed – I could have had the whole plate to myself it was so good. It was cooked al dente, creamy and had a subtle saffron flavour.

Mains

The Mediterranian Sea Bass Fillet was a hit on the table for mains. The fish just fell apart and was cooked perfectly. The Prawn Gnoccetti looked delicious with juicy prawns and a nice tomato sauce.

I opted for the Chicken Paillard with courgette puree and roasted tomatoes from the Francesca Giacomini section. The chicken was pounded just right and seasoned well. It was on a bed of courgette purée and served with roasted cherry tomatoes and a wedge of lemon. The chicken was cooked well and not dry. Combined with the purée it went down a treat and was filling too. We had some triple cooked fries and grilled seasonal vegetables to accompany the mains.

Dessert

To end the evening I got a special cake to take home. My first impression (awww so cute) and my second impression when I took a bite (omg this is so good, get me another one). The sponge was soft, the strawberry filling was the correct consistency with real strawberry pieces and the icing had the right sweetness. Every spoonful melted away.

Drinks

Fruity, tropical, strong, citrusy – just say the word and the mixologist will put together a perfect drink for you putting you in that Maia mood. Maia had an extensive drinks list including wines and hot drinks. They make speciality healthy juices created by Francesca Giacomini.

I started the evening with an Aperol Spritz. The perfect balance of ingredients stirred through and served perfectly. I could have done with some Italian sunshine to go with the Aperol Spritz. Luckily the warm ambiance, company and great music made up for it.

I followed this with by a specially made mocktail (jasmine tea, lychees & passion fruit) and ended the evening with a personalised cocktail which had dried pineapple garnishes.

The drinks were made with passion and the skilled bartenders got top marks from me.

Thank you for the fabulous service,  food and drinks Maia. I look forward to coming back soon and getting into the #maidmood again.

Unfortunetely Maia Knightsbridge has now closed.

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Maia
32-34 Hans Crescent, Knightsbridge. SW1X 0LZ London
Tel: 02072226000

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Neha 

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Disclaimer: I was invited to Maia. All options are and photos are my mine.