An evening to remember at KiKi’s Café

Early in November, as the nights were drawing in and the festive season approached, MK Pulse contributor Emma-Rose Norris was invited to an evening to remember at KiKi’s Café…

If you haven’t already had a chance to visit Kiki’s Café – voted Milton Keynes Best Restaurant/Café at the MK Inspiration Awards – then I’m not sure where you’ve been! This family-run spot is a real gem nestled in MK’s bustling city centre. Whether you’re looking for a morning pick-me-up, a leisurely brunch, a cosy coffee date or even booking the place out for a private party, KiKi’s is the perfect destination. In the daytime, the café itself provides a comfortable and welcoming atmosphere which is perfect for a spot of working brunch. With plenty of light, high-speed internet and convenient charging stations, you can be sure to stay connected in this home away from home.

As aforementioned, KiKi’s is family-centred and family-run – Ruby’s passion for food and hospitality led her to establish KiKi’s alongside her husband Shaz (who also runs a dental practise called Dental Works located next door to the café) and son Faizan – who’s niece Kira is KiKi’s namesake. KiKi’s food selection is inspired by Ruby’s travels and experiences of different cultures. In fact, their menu has recently been transformed by local chef Aaron Johnson of ‘Chef Hat Home.’

Aaron, who has over 15 years of kitchen experience, now runs his own catering company where he offers private dining, wedding catering, corporate events and gala dinners. Having worked at fine dining establishments in Australia, as Head Chef  at the Carrington Arms in Moulsoe, Robinson’s in Newport Pagnell and the Chester Arms in Chicheley before moving into corporate hospitality as Head Chef for Mercedes Benz, Aaron has also joined KiKi’s as their Consultant Chef.

On this particular evening, KiKi’s Café and Chef Aaron hosted an invite-only dinner as a ‘pop-up’ supper club – something which KiKi’s are keen to host more of in the future (so keep a beady eye on their social media accounts and website for further announcements!) Our three-course meal was perfectly crafted and small, but perfectly formed – the real essence of fine dining. Our starter consisted of whipped goat’s cheese, beetroot, orange and horseradish with confit duck terrine, which I think had to be my favourite of the three courses (as an avid goat’s cheese and beetroot fan!) For my main dish, I opted for the wild mushroom and sage stuffed chicken breast, Pommes Anna, glazed carrots and chicken jus which was also delicious. The vegetarian option of mushroom wellington also looked mouth-wateringly appealing! For dessert we had meringue, lemon curd, lemon sorbet and blackberries which was slightly sweet and super tart – the perfect palate cleanser to round off our meal.

Kiki’s Cafe truly is a destination for all seasons and events. Supporting other local businesses such as Chouxly Scrumptious and Cheeky Cheesecakes for their baked goods cabinet, alongside their known brunch offering, they can cater for all sorts. KiKi’s offer: private parties and events; craft classes – they currently collaborate monthly with ‘Something Less Boring’ for a monthly art club; and children’s parties – with their next upcoming event ‘Breakfast with Elsa’ available to book on their website now. Whatever you’re looking for, why not consider this stunning spot that sits right in the centre of Milton Keynes.