Karla Knowles Opens Aree in Notting Hill, Her First Own Restaurant

Karla Knowles, former head chef of Kiln in Soho, is opening her first own restaurant. Aree lands in Notting Hill in spring 2027, with Thai-inspired cooking over a wood fire.

From Kiln to her own kitchen

Knowles ran the kitchen at Kiln, the Soho grill house that put Thai cooking over burning wood on the London map. Now she leaves the pass to build a restaurant of her own. The Caterer first reported the news on 22 July. While Aree takes shape, she cooks a summer pop-up series in London under her own name.

What we know about Aree

Aree describes itself as Thai-inspired with wood fire cooking, based in Notting Hill. The opening is planned for spring 2027. Follow the build-up via @aree.london and @karlaknowles__.

Frequently asked questions

When does Aree open?

Spring 2027, in Notting Hill, London.

Who is Karla Knowles?

The former head chef of Kiln in Soho. Aree is her first own restaurant.

What kind of restaurant will Aree be?

Thai-inspired cooking over a wood fire, according to the restaurant's own announcement.

Photo: Benjamin McMahon, via @karlaknowles__, shared with permission. Source: The Caterer and Instagram.