London’s vibrant food scene has a new standout with the arrival of KURO Bagels, the latest addition to the acclaimed KURO brand in Notting Hill. Spearheaded by Julian Victoria and Jacob Van Nieuwkoop, the duo behind KURO Coffee and KURO Bakery, this new venture transforms their former eatery into a dedicated bagel shop.
Offering a selection of meticulously crafted, high-quality bagels, KURO Bagels is designed as a takeaway concept, with delivery available through Deliveroo.
An Artisan Approach to Bagels
KURO Bagels is redefining the city’s bagel experience by focusing on seasonal, locally sourced, and sustainable ingredients. The menu provides a balance of made-to-order bagels and ready-filled favourites, catering to diverse palates and dietary preferences.
Customers can choose from a variety of bagel flavours, including classic Plain, the flavour-packed Everything, and the slightly sweet Cinnamon-Raisin. These can be paired with KURO’s signature cream cheeses, available in flavours such as cream chives, wasabi, roasted garlic, and cinnamon with brown sugar. The array of toppings and fillings ensures that each bagel is both a visual and culinary delight.
For those looking for a quick yet satisfying bite, KURO Bagels presents a selection of ready-filled creations, each crafted with the same attention to detail that defines the brand.
Signature Ready-Filled Bagels
KURO Bagels’ pre-made selections include timeless classics and innovative twists. The Italian combines mortadella, salami, provolone, and a zesty vinaigrette, offering a rich and savoury taste. The Peanut Butter + Jelly pays homage to an American favourite, while The KURO Special delivers a distinct Japanese influence with wasabi cream cheese, ikura (salmon roe), red onion, and dill.
Two of the most beloved items from KURO Eatery have also been reimagined. The Sausage, Egg, and Cheese sandwich now features a bagel instead of a bun, elevating its texture and taste. Meanwhile, the Smoked Salmon sandwich, previously served on sourdough, is now presented on a toasted bagel, maintaining its refined simplicity.
Catering to All Dietary Preferences
Understanding the importance of inclusivity, KURO Bagels ensures that vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options are readily available. Plant-based eaters can opt for The Veg, a combination of cream cheese, tomato, cucumber, red onion, dill, and capers, which can be made vegan upon request. The Tomato Bagel, featuring cream cheese, tomato, salt, pepper, and olive oil, is another minimalist yet flavourful choice.
For those seeking a protein-packed alternative, the Tuna Salad Bagel incorporates tuna, red onion, chives, mayo, and lemon, while the Chicken Salad Bagel blends chicken, celery, mayo, and wholegrain mustard for a creamy yet balanced profile.
The Ideal Neighbourhood Spot
Located on Hillgate Street, KURO Bagels is nestled among the charming and colourful facades of Notting Hill. While predominantly designed as a grab-and-go establishment, the venue includes a 15-cover outdoor terrace, perfect for enjoying a bagel with a coffee during warmer months.
Reflecting the brand’s signature aesthetic, KURO Bagels embodies the clean and minimalist Japanese-inspired design seen in its sister locations. The calming, neutral-toned interior creates a welcoming atmosphere that allows the high-quality food to remain the centre of attention.
A Word from the Founders
KURO Bagels marks a natural evolution for the brand, following the success of KURO Bakery and KURO Coffee. Jacob Van Nieuwkoop, Managing Director of KURO, expressed his enthusiasm for the launch, stating:
“We’re incredibly excited that KURO Bagels has opened its doors. Building on the success of the Bakery, it made perfect sense to expand our range with the launch of bagels. We look forward to bringing a reimagined premium offering to our local community, with the KURO twist that we are renowned for.”
The Growing KURO Brand
Just steps away from KURO Bagels, the brand’s other locations continue to thrive. KURO Coffee, which launched in 2021, remains a sought-after spot for specialty coffee and traditional matcha, while KURO Bakery, opened in 2022, offers a selection of freshly baked goods, including sourdough loaves and seasonal pastries.
Looking ahead, KURO Bakery is set to introduce new indulgent creations in 2025, further solidifying its reputation as a go-to for high-quality baked goods. Each of these establishments, including the new KURO Bagels, is deeply rooted in the brand’s philosophy of combining quality ingredients with minimalist elegance.
Final Thoughts
With the opening of KURO Bagels, Notting Hill gains an artisanal bagel shop that prioritises quality, creativity, and community. Whether opting for a classic Plain bagel with cream cheese or indulging in the unique KURO Special, visitors are in for a refined yet comforting experience. The brand’s expansion continues to reinforce its dedication to excellence, ensuring that KURO remains a defining presence in London’s dynamic food scene.
