PEAKLIFE

By Akanksha Dean

1. AMAYA

Amaya offers a strikingly modern dining experience, exuding an art gallery vibe rather than a traditional restaurant atmosphere. With its low lighting and polished wooden tables elegantly spaced throughout the venue, it attracts a sophisticated clientele from the upscale Belgravia area. Two impressive tandoor ovens invite diners to witness the culinary craft in action, adding an engaging element to the meal. The menu is dynamic, frequently changing to include a range of delectable dishes, ensuring plenty of vegetarian options alongside enticing meat and seafood choices. Dishes are served as they’re cooked, designed for sharing, making dining here a delightful communal experience.

Signature highlights include the refreshing griddled Indian sweet potato, succulent scallops in their shells, and tender lamb chops, all complemented by smooth chicken korma and fragrant biryanis served in their own pots. The house-made paneer dazzles with its soft, spongy texture and a whisper-thin chilli crust, while the sirloin boti surprises with its smoky, zesty marinade. Wrap up your journey with a luscious, cardamom-kissed chicken korma, simmered in a wild garlic masala. While the wine list leans towards premium selections, a fine Californian Chardonnay pairs beautifully with the diverse flavours, making each visit an unforgettable culinary journey. With service as smooth as silk, Amaya is a must-try destination for discerning palates.

2. VEERASWAMY

What do Charlie Chaplin, Winston Churchill, and Indira Gandhi have in common? They’ve all savoured the culinary delights at Veeraswamy, London’s oldest Indian restaurant. Established in 1926, this iconic Mayfair establishment has remained a beacon of high-end Indian cuisine, serving time-honoured dishes from the Raj, including Madras curry, duck vindaloo, and dak bungalow curry. Veeraswamy continues to thrive, earning its first Michelin star in 2016, with inspectors praising its ‘classic dishes prepared with considerable care.’ The vibrant, colour-rich dining room reflects the restaurant’s charm, run with immense pride. With its legacy and expertise in perfectly spiced flavours, Veeraswamy is a must-visit destination for culinary enthusiasts eager to experience a piece of history while indulging in an exquisite array of authentic Indian dishes.

3. THE CINNAMON CLUB

Nestled in the grade II-listed former Westminster Library, Vivek Singh’s Cinnamon Club redefines contemporary Indian dining amidst a backdrop of vintage bookcases. This culinary gem invites guests to indulge in a remarkable nine-course tasting menu featuring exquisite dishes like Devon crab and kokum berry salad, chargrilled monkfish with Kerala curry sauce, and tandoori venison loin. For those seeking flexibility, a diverse à la carte menu and a value-driven set lunch make for enticing options. Vegans are not overlooked, with delicious offerings like okra stuffed with peanut and jaggery and roasted courgette. Complementing the vibrant cuisine, the restaurant offers a thoughtfully curated selection of wines, innovative spiced cocktails, and an impressive array of gins. Cinnamon Club effortlessly marries exquisite flavours with an unparalleled ambiance, making it an absolute must-try for food aficionados in search of a captivating dining experience.

4. COLONEL SAAB

A vibrant homage to Indian cuisine that promises a culinary experience worthy of daily indulgence. Following the success of its original Holborn location, restaurateur Roop Partap Choudhary has unveiled a larger venue in Trafalgar Square, featuring a meticulously curated menu and a warm, inviting atmosphere. The restaurant boasts an elegant bar, a stylish lounge, and an opulent dining room illuminated by a stunning canopy of Firozabad chandeliers, along with two private dining rooms. Acclaimed as one of the top Indian restaurants by Forbes and a recipient of multiple awards, Colonel Saab showcases the diverse flavours of India, inspired by Choudhary’s travels with his parents. Chef Sohan Bhandari expertly balances authenticity and innovation, delivering regional specialities rarely seen in London. The friendly and knowledgeable staff enrich the atmosphere, sharing captivating stories behind the recipes and artworks. Continuing a family tradition, Colonel Saab sets a new benchmark in London, celebrating the vibrant culture of Indian cuisine with delicious elegance and originality, making every meal a feast for both the palate and the eyes. Every aspect, from the thoughtfully crafted dishes to the artisanal drinks, contributes to a multi-sensory journey through India, making it a must-visit for food enthusiasts.

5. CINNAMON BAZAAR

Cinnamon Bazaar, an alluring offshoot of the iconic Cinnamon Club, reimagines Indian dining within a chic, vibrant setting inspired by traditional marketplaces—minus the haggling. With rose gold walls, opulent pink silk awnings, and cascading flower baskets, this exquisite venue caters perfectly to the business-lunch crowd seeking style and substance. The kitchen excels in imaginative fusions of East and West, with standout dishes like the lamb rogan josh shepherd’s pie—an artful blend of cardamom-infused lamb nestled under a velvety layer of buttery mashed potato. Another must-try is the Malabar boatman’s haddock curry, showcasing incredibly fresh fish swimming in richly spiced flavours. For a swanky work lunch experience that delivers culinary delight, Cinnamon Bazaar is undoubtedly a must-try—and that shepherd’s pie might just change your perspective on comfort food.

Akanksha Dean is an independent food & travel writer, a chef and a catalyst and is the first Indian to have trained at Osteria Francescana, in Modena, Italy, rated as the world’s best restaurant in the World’s 50 Best Restaurants, in 2016 and 2018 and currently in the Best of The Best Category.

cover credits : Pexels