The Spiteri family has opened The Latimer on Latimer Road, north Kensington, turning a drab industrial corner into a bustling gastropub that feels instantly local. The venue , run by patriarch Jon Spiteri and his culinary kin, offers a concise menu of modern British dishes and a rotating selection of cask ales .

Jon Spiteri’s Front‑of‑House Legacy Shapes the Pub’s Service

According to the review , Jon Spiteri—known for his work at St John and The French House—brings decades of front‑of‑house expertise to The Latimer. His relaxed yet attentive service style creates a convivial atmosphere that balances couples, friends, and solo diners. The review notes that the bar’s blue awning and green‑panelled walls contribute to a welcoming, almost “much‑loved local” feel.

Family‑Run Lineage : From Rochelle Canteen to Caravel Barge

The review highlights the Spiteri family’s culinary pedigree: ex‑wife Melanie Arnold co‑founded Rochelle Canteen; sons Lorcan and Fin opened Caravel on a north London barge; daughter Molly ran business development at Koya, the udon noodle spot. This breadth of experience informs the menu’s mix of British staples and continental twists, such as haddock goujons with masala‑spiced batter and pork‑belly skewers braised in cider.

Menu Highlights and Minor Quibbles

Reviewers praise the homemade pickles, fresh‑baked milk buns, and the robust tartar sauce that accompanies the haddock. The main courses—onglet cooked rare and seabass atop marinated tomatoes—are described as “satisfying” with a “sticky jus” that ties flavors together. However, the dessert section falls short; chocolate mousse is noted as “ponderous” and the apricot biscuit crumble is “sparse.” Despite these minor flaws, the overall dining experience is deemed “good food, good beer, and very, very good cheer.”

Community Spirit in a Changing Neighborhood

As the review points out, The Latimer has quickly become a destination for locals and food lovers alike, offering a space where families celebrate milestones and workers unwind after hours. The rotating cask ale lineup from local breweries and a concise wine list curated by Molly further cement the pub’s community focus. The venue’s success illustrates the family’s deep understanding of hospitality, turning every detail—from pickles to playlist—into an intentional experience.