Located in the heart of Knightsbridge, the Indian restaurant Vatavaran offers a unique dining experience inspired by the Himalayan mountains. With a refined ambiance and a diverse menu, this venue is a hit with Indian cuisine enthusiasts. This article explores the atmosphere, the varied menu, as well as the dishes that marked this gastronomic experience.
A captivating atmosphere #
Entering Vatavaran, the spirit of the Himalayas envelops you in an intriguing atmosphere. The name “Vatavaran” literally means “atmosphere” in Sanskrit, and the decor of this restaurant unfolds over four floors, reminiscent of the winding ridges of the mountains. At each level, a distinct ambiance emerges, from the elegant bar to the “Meadow,” a more intimate and warm restaurant designed with green leather armchairs.
On the first floor, the Orangery opens up to an outdoor kitchen where chefs shine in preparing the dishes. The setting is enhanced by an impressive atrium and a play of colors that evokes the hues of the sky. Higher up, the Shikar bar enchants with its boudoir decor, velvet walls, and subdued lighting creating a relaxing atmosphere.
A menu that dazzles #
Chef Rohit Ghai, a Michelin-starred winner, has crafted a menu that celebrates the richness of Himalayan cuisine with a modern twist. The diversity of dishes offered, ranging from grilled items to specialties cooked in a tandoor, satisfies all palates. From wild prawns to salmon tikka, the options abound, and vegetarians will also find their delight.
Meals often begin with poppadoms accompanied by tasty sauces. For our starter, we opted for a spicy dal soup with bati, a comforting dish with sweet and tangy flavors, typical of northern Himalayas.
Main dishes: a memorable experience #
Regarding main dishes, the Butter Chicken, a classic, has captivated with its velvety texture and perfect blend of Kashmiri chili and yogurt. The meat is cooked to perfection, and each bite attests to the chef’s expertise. Meanwhile, my companion chose the Lamb Barbat, a slowly simmered lamb dish, tender and flavorful, that falls apart easily with a fork.
The sides, including nan and rice, beautifully complement these dishes, creating a harmony of flavors that delight our taste buds. At this point, our stomachs started to protest, but we couldn’t resist the temptation to taste the rose and mango lassis, which add a sweet final note to our meal.
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Impeccable service #
The staff at Vatavaran is another highlight of this experience. Remarkably courteous, they are attentive to the clients’ needs while maintaining a relaxed approach. The musical ambiance, with a duo of crooners playing classics, adds to the enchantment of the evening, making this outing even more memorable.
Final verdict #
The evening at Vatavaran proved to be a sensory delight. Between the refined ambiance, delicious dishes, and attentive service, every aspect of this culinary experience deserves praise. Whether you are an Indian cuisine enthusiast or simply in search of an exceptional meal in London, Vatavaran turns out to be an unmissable venue.
