DonD M.
Google
Vatavaran, Knightsbridge — a truly memorable Indian dining experience.
From the moment we sat down it was clear this kitchen takes pride in creativity and technique. As a vegetarian I found the menu generous and inventive: the starters were sheer bliss. Beetroot chops were a revelation — intensely flavoured, not at all one-note, and somehow transformed into something that didn’t even “taste like beetroot” in the best possible way. Dabeli pinwheels showcased exemplary culinary imagination, and the phoa — foam yogurt with potato vada — was an artful, perfectly balanced starter. Every paneer dish benefits from house-made paneer: soft, fragrant and clearly crafted with care.
Service matched the cooking. Vinay, our waiter, was attentive, knowledgeable and genuinely helpful, which elevated the whole experience.
Mains continued to impress. Chole with kulcha was comforting and flavourful, while the palak paneer made my taste buds dance with warming spices and beautiful texture. The Morle mushrooms were a showstopper — lush, truffle-accented sauce and small potatoes stuffed with truffled mushrooms were executed brilliantly; a real “wow” dish.
Desserts pushed the meal to another level. The masala bread-and-butter pudding was outstanding, but the standout was the pineapple with jaggery and coconut ice cream — caramelised jaggery coating the pineapple was every bit as exciting as it sounds. In-house sorbets were bright and cleansed the palate between courses.
Overall, Vatavaran offers innovative, immersive modern Indian cuisine that ranks among the best I’ve experienced in London. Bold flavours, technical finesse, thoughtful service — it’s deserving of serious recognition (a Michelin star wouldn’t surprise me). Highly recommended.
