Dine across the subcontinent with dishes from the royal kitchens.
When a restaurant comes with MICHELIN recognition, it's almost guaranteed to be good. Having seen unprecedented success on the subcontinent with four restaurant openings, Jamavar arrived on the London dining scene in 2016 and received a coveted MICHELIN star in 2022.
Entering the restaurant, it's easy to see why. Jamavar London offers an exquisite dining destination amidst opulent interiors showcased across a split-level space on Mayfair's Mount Street. Taking a seat on a blue leather banquette, we're privy to views of the street and the inner workings of the central bar, where skilled mixologists churn out colourful cocktails with whimsical names like Jamavar Delight and Royal Blush.
The setting is as regal as it is charming. Tanjore paintings sit in chunky gold frames lining the wooden panelled walls, while ornate tiling and textiles display flourishes of palatial India. A small street-side terrace decked out in yellow hues is inspired by Alphonso Mango Season and allows seating for two tables behind golden ropes and flourishing foliage.
Taking its name from the intricate 16th-century lace shawls of Kashmir, Jamavar is known for its luxurious pan-Indian cuisine from Culinary Director Surender Mohan. The menu pays homage to the subcontinent, showcasing dishes from royal kitchens. For a true taste of Jamavar, the tasting menu (£105 per person) comes highly recommended.
Jamavar London's à la carte menu delights with dishes that showcase India's diverse flavours and regional cuisines. The restaurant prides itself on using the finest ingredients, ensuring the aromatic curries and tandoori grills offer a harmonious blend of spice and texture. Instead of starters, a selection of small plates is offered, and we studiously work our way through the signatures.
The Chandni Chowk Ki Aloo Tikki (£16) is an expertly spiced fluffy potato tikki served with yoghurt, tamarind and mint chutney. The Prawns Peera (£16) offers a fiery dish of sun-dried chillies, coconut, ginger and curry leaves, where the unassuming presentation belies the fierce heat of this robust seafood dish. However, the Kid Goat Shami Kebab (£20) is the talk of the table, serving a puck-like kebab of tender goat with a delicate sweet flavour amidst bone marrow sauce and moreish chur chur paratha.
Mains, biryanis and tandoor dishes form the heart of the meal, and while the Malai Stone Bass Tikka had the MICHELIN inspectors frothing at the mouth, we'd suggest Leela's Lobster Neeruli (£42). This silky-smooth subtle dish is concocted from southern spiced coconut milk, pearl onions and kal dosa, coating the delicate lobster pieces without overpowering. Our dining companion can attest to the Old Delhi Butter Chicken (£32) with its alluring mix of chargrilled pulled chicken, fresh tomato and fenugreek. Accompanied by an assortment of breads dusted with kalonji seeds and Dum Nalli Biryani (£36) made from lamb, basmati rice, and crispy onions – it's a winning combination.
Jamavar's decadent desserts cover Rhubarb Chuski Falooda (£12) and the gold-flecked Chocolate Bounty (£14). However, if you ever wondered what it would look like if The Incredible Hulk made MICHELIN meals, the results would likely be the vibrant green Pistachio Milk Cake (£13). Floating upon a bed of pistachio milk and topped with cream cheese and pretty pink rose petals, the resulting dish is a little denser than we would've liked.
Jamavar's refined ambience exudes a sense of sophistication, making it the perfect setting for a special occasion or a memorable meal. With its sterling service, exquisite cuisine, and indulgent dining experience, Jamavar has now set its sights on Middle East expansion. Doha opened in 2021, and a restaurant in Downtown Dubai is expected at the end of the year. You heard it here first.
GO: Visit https://jamavarrestaurants.com for reservations and more information.