Vatavaran restaurant in London is the newest addition to the city’s luxury dining scene. This is the latest project by Michelin-starred chef Rohit Ghai, famous for his work at Jamavar and Kutir, and restaurateur Abhi Sangwan. Located on Beauchamp Place in Knightsbridge, Vatavaran, meaning “atmosphere” in Sanskrit, takes inspiration from the Himalayan region. It offers a blend of traditional Indian flavours and innovative Himalayan influences. It aims to transport diners through the mountains’ landscapes, spices, and culinary heritage.
The restaurant is designed as an immersive, multi-level space, each floor arousing different elements of the Himalayan range. From powerful textures reminiscent of mountainous terrains to natural tones and accents, the interiors reflect the calm yet powerful ambience of the Himalayas.
The top floor houses Shikhar, an intimate cocktail lounge named after the Sanskrit word for “peak.” Here, diners can enjoy handcrafted cocktails, each carefully infused with Himalayan herbs and spices. Sangwan crafted Shikhar’s menu with cocktails featuring saffron, juniper, and Indian spice infusions. The combination of sophisticated design and sensory culinary elements provides a holistic atmosphere that feels luxurious and true to its Himalayan theme.
Vatavaran is poised to be a cultural and sensory journey that takes the art of Indian cuisine to new heights. Through Ghai’s innovative menu and Sangwan’s curated drinks selection, Vatavaran invites diners to experience a fresh take on Indian fine dining. It comes rooted in tradition but brimming with modern sophistication and Himalayan spirit.
Vatavaran Restaurant London Menu
The heart of Vatavaran lies in its diverse menu. Ghai has crafted it to showcase the essence of Himalayan cuisine. He emphasizes ingredients and cooking methods found in the mountain regions. The menu is structured around the journey through the Himalayas. Here, each dish represents a facet of the region’s culinary diversity.
The starters, collectively called “A Taste of the Peaks,” feature dishes like charred root vegetables marinated with mountain herbs. You can also find crispy fried prawns with Himalayan salt, and spiced lamb kebabs cooked over an open flame. These dishes bring out the bold, earthy flavours of the high-altitude regions.
In the main course section, “Elevated Flavours Over Open Flame,” Ghai explores the smoky, robust flavours developed through open-fire cooking. The standout dishes include line-caught Himalayan trout marinated in mustard and herbs, then grilled to perfection, and lamb shank simmered slowly in fragrant spices, delivering a balance of tenderness and flavour. Another highlight is the chateaubriand, which has wild mushrooms and rich jus.
The sides menu, or “A Journey in Every Bite,” complements the mains with traditional Himalayan-style accompaniments. Options include steamed rice infused with saffron, handmade bread baked in-house, and small plates featuring seasonal vegetables dressed in spices and herbs unique to the Himalayan region. Chutneys made with ingredients like wild garlic, pomegranate seeds, and green chilli offer additional layers of flavour.
Desserts at Vatavaran are an artful fusion of classic Indian sweets and European techniques. Signature items include a saffron-infused yoghurt cheesecake topped with fresh berries and a chocolate fondant with Himalayan pink salt and cardamom-infused cream.
Wine and Drinks
Vatavaran’s drink selection is equally impressive, with a wine list developed to harmonize with the spices and bold flavours of the food. The selection is a mix of low-intervention wines, many available by the glass, allowing diners to explore unique, sustainable varieties. The cocktails at Shikhar are infused with Himalayan botanicals, allowing diners to enjoy the full spectrum of flavours the region’s ingredients offer. Sangwan has crafted the cocktail menu to mirror the exotic, earthy palette of the Himalayas, with cocktails incorporating spices like turmeric, ginger, and cinnamon, blending with gin and bourbon.
Vatavaran Restaurant London Bookings
Capital A List members can make bookings for XX below.
Vatavaran Restaurant London Cuisine, Dress Code & Address
Cuisine: Indian
Dress Code: Casual
Area: Knightsbridge
Address: 14-15 Beauchamp Pl, London SW3 1NQ
Website: https://vatavaran.uk/
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