A Food Lover’s Guide to Kensington’s Dining Scene
Tucked between rambling palms and friendly sidewalks, the Kensington neighborhood of Coral Springs is a culinary playground where family favorites, local secrets, and bold flavors come together. Whether you’re a longtime resident, a newcomer, or a dedicated explorer of Broward County’s bites, Kensington’s food scene promises diversity and authenticity at every turn. Want to eat where locals eat? Here’s where to start.
Standout Restaurants: Flavors from All Over
While Kensington itself is largely residential, it sits at the center of flavor-packed pockets—especially along Coral Ridge Drive and near Wiles Road and Westview Drive. These intersections are true culinary crossroads.
- Falafel Bistro & Wine Bar *(5677 Coral Ridge Dr.)*
If you crave Mediterranean and Middle Eastern zest, this local legend is your spot. The vegan-friendly menu boasts hummus, crispy falafel, shawarma, and sublime baklava. Romantic, modern, and mid-priced ($15-$25 per entrée), it’s equally perfect for date night or a weekday lunch with friends. The wine list is a cut above, with global picks that match every plate.
- Pasquale’s Pizza Company *(6174 W Sample Rd.)*
Kensington’s best answer to a classic New York-style slice, Pasquale’s is beloved by families for its foldable pizza, pillowy garlic knots, and cheerful, quick service. Eat in, order out, or grab a pie for parkside picnics—a must for local soccer games. Prices are friendly ($10-$20 per person).
- La Union Mexican Bakery & Restaurant *(3950 Coral Ridge Dr.)*
Fresh tortillas, bubbling mole, and too-good-to-pass sweet bread (make sure to grab a concha!) have made this spot a quiet favorite. Family run and welcoming, they offer home-style Mexican breakfasts, hearty tamales, and a rotating menu of specialties. It’s affordable and approachable—most dishes range from $8-$16.
Cafés and Bakeries: Morning to Midday Magic
When it comes to Kensington’s cafés and bakeries, you’ll find both specialty shops and neighborhood institutions perfect for a quick pick-me-up or a slow brunch.
- Cali Coffee *(3890 Coral Ridge Dr.)*
A rising local chain but with a fiercely community-focused vibe, this drive-thru shop energizes Kensington with signature cold brews, quirky barista specials, and giant, fresh-baked cookies to dunk. Complimentary dog treats make it a hit with pet lovers. Most drinks and snacks fall in the $2-$6 range.
- Mojo Donuts *(8870 W Atlantic Blvd.)*
Worth the short drive east from Kensington, Mojo Donuts is a sugar lover’s paradise. Crafted daily, their menu surprises with inventive flavors like Maple Bacon, Guava & Cheese, or Reese’s Overload. Each donut is a work of art—perfect for celebrating anything (or nothing at all). Expect $2-$4 per donut, with baker’s dozens for families.
Hidden Gems: Local Secrets Worth Seeking
Kensington has its share of under-the-radar finds—places that don’t get the buzz of bigger names but have die-hard fans for good reason.
- Wild Thyme BBQ Food Truck *(parks along Coral Ridge Dr. on weekends)*
Track the smoky blue food truck near North Community Park for true Southern BBQ. Tender brisket, sticky ribs, and jalapeño cornbread draw families and sports fans. The pitmaster’s homemade hot sauce is a minor legend. Most plates come in under $15 and feed a crowd.
- House of Flavor Jamaican & Caribbean Eatery *(6001 W Sample Rd. Ste 3)*
Tucked in an unassuming plaza, this spot channels island comfort—jerk chicken, ackee, fried plantains, and rich curries. Locals rave about the oxtail and “festival” (fried dough). Price points hover between $10-$18, and portions are generous.
- Jenny’s Vietnamese Kitchen *(food stand at the Saturday Farmers’ Market on Coral Springs Dr.)*
Once a “best-kept secret,” Jenny’s offers fragrant pho, stuffed banh mi baguettes, and fresh spring rolls. Service is quick, and flavors are both authentic and comforting. Don’t miss the passion fruit iced tea on a hot day!
Family Favorites & Food Traditions
Kensington residents love a laid-back gathering, and local eateries know how to accommodate. Birthday dinners, Friday night takeout, and lazy Sunday brunches are neighborhood rites.
- For family pizza nights: Pasquale’s
- For lively vegetarian feasts: Falafel Bistro
- For weekend treat runs: Mojo Donuts
- For post-game lunch: Wild Thyme BBQ at the park or La Union for tacos to go
Cuisines, Price Ranges, and What Makes Kensington Special
From Mediterranean to Caribbean, Kensington’s food scene mirrors the diversity of Coral Springs itself. Here, the story is less about glitzy, white-tablecloth dining and more about warm service, global influences, and places where regulars are greeted by name.
- Cuisine Types: Mediterranean, Italian, Mexican, Caribbean, Vietnamese, classic American
- Price Ranges: Most neighborhood favorites are mid-range ($10-$25 per entrée), with bakeries and cafés on the lower end ($2-$8 per treat or drink)
- What Makes Kensington Unique:
Warm, locally-owned spots rule. Outdoor seating is common, and menus are often kid-friendly. Food trucks and food stands add a pop-up adventure vibe—keep an eye out for new flavors every season!
Where to Find the Food Action
While there’s not a “restaurant row,” savvy foodies know that:
- Coral Ridge Drive — From Wiles Road south to Westview Drive hosts the most variety within an easy stroll or quick bike ride.
- NW 56th Drive & Coral Springs Drive — Home to weekend markets and pop-up food trucks.
- Little neighborhood plazas, especially along Sample Road, are peppered with hidden gems—keep exploring!
Savor Kensington: Make It a Habit
The best way to get to know Kensington’s food culture? Become a regular. Swap tips with neighbors as you wait for your order, pick up a loyalty card, or follow local spots on social media for pop-up specials and food truck alerts. Every bite tells a story, and in Kensington, you’re always welcome at the table.
Whether you’re breaking bread at a favorite family restaurant, tasting your way through a weekend market, or surprising yourself with something new at a local cafe, Kensington offers delicious memories—one plate at a time.