There are so many brilliant Indian restaurants in London to choose from, most have a twist or a concept, but Jamavar concentrates on being completely authentic and delivering the finest Indian cuisine.
It was only when I sat down in this beautiful Mayfair restaurant that I realised this wasn’t my first Jamavar experience. After travelling round the world for over 5 months, my final meal before coming home was at Jamavar in Delhi, an exceptional meal before flying back to England.
Remarkably, the Mayfair branch of the Jamavar chain had a similar feel, the decor has an elegant warmth and the service is second to none. On a weekday lunchtime we sat by the window and watched as the dining room slowly filled up around us… obviously this is a popular lunch choice for those working and living in the area.
The menu is a bible of Indian cuisine, showcasing a range of flavours and dishes from across India. The kitchen team is led by Executive Chef Rohit Ghai who has gained a prestigious reputation working in some of London’s best-loved Indian Michelin starred kitchens, including Gymkhana, Trishna and Benares.
I felt completely baffled by the long list of delicious-sounding exotic dishes so was pleased to have the assistance of our softly spoken, but extremely knowledgeable waiter. He pointed us in the right direction, and before long our table was filled with aromatic plates of food.
From the starter section of the menu spicy and crispy Pepper & Garlic Soft Shell Crab was addictively tasty and Chandni Chowk Ki Aloo Tikki (made from potato tikki, honey yoghurt, white radish, tamarind & mint chutney) was a fantastically good vegetarian option, a balanced mix of vibrant flavours, colours and textures.
We had been told that we HAD to try the Old Delhi Butter Chicken, a dish that has become a firm favourite for regular guests to Jamavar. It was the ultimate curry… creamy and smooth with a depth of flavour from the tandoor over but a delicacy of spices. I also adored the Adraki Lamb Chops made with an intense marinade of royal cumin, crushed onion, fennel & ginger. Slow cooked black lentils and garlic naan were the perfect accompaniments.
A trio of floral kulfis was a lovely light dessert to end the meal and clean the palate. For something more robust opt for the Port Poached Pear with pink peppercorn kulfi.
This year Jamavar was awarded a Michelin-star, an accolade it truly deserves thanks to the reliably delicious food, the careful considered service and the glamorous setting.
More information and book a table at Jamavar here.