From the founder of Cinnamon Club comes Darbaar, a new dining experience in the City that pays homage to the banquets of the Indian Royal Court. As we bustled our way in, in an effort to escape the “beast from the east”, Abdul Yaseen was there to greet us himself. Welcoming and hospitable, we immediately felt comfortable in this man’s presence as he invited us into the bar to enjoy a drink pre-meal. Since moving to London from India 15 years ago, Abdul has been Head Chef at Cinnamon Kitchen and Anise, and made a number of television appearances on shows such as Celebrity Master Chef, The Hairy Bikers and Great Britain’s Best Dish. 

The restaurant itself is majestic and opulent, sweeping across 5,500 feet of space to cater for 220 people. The high-ceiling and classy decor add to the grandeur, while in addition there is also an interactive grill seating area, a private dining room for 20 people and a bespoke chef’s table for 12.

The Royal Bengal Style, Wild Madagascar Prawn is an absolute must. This was cooked on Masterchef in 2016 and is a personal recommendation of Abdul’s. It’s meaty, it’s so wonderfully flavoured and it peels away beautifully out of its shell. A joy to eat.

The Goan Ox cheek is divine. It’s melt-in-the-mouth, eyes-roll-with-the-first-taste kinda stuff. The Kasturi Free Range Butter Chicken Curry is rich and creamy, using the thigh meat of the bird which lends to a softer finish on the palate.

I highly recommend Darbaar. An ideal spot for a date or a refined social with friends, the food is exceptional and the service is second-to-none.

For more information visit www.darbaarrestaurants.com