Indian Inspiration At Kahani Restaurant
The first rule of dining at Kahani is that you don’t speak about Kahani.
Well, maybe that’s not quite the rule, but having walked past the entrance twice before noticing it, then descending a flight of stairs into a basement paradise, our entry to Kahani, just off Sloane Square, certainly felt secretive and special from the outset. And having discovered this subterranean gem, we were unsure of whether to share our experience, or keep it close to our chests as our little secret.
Kahani, which means ‘story’ in Hindi, is where Michelin-starred chef Peter Joseph is adding the latest chapter to his culinary tale with a fresh approach to Indian cuisine.
Having entered the grand dining space following our steep and narrow descent, we gasped at the opulence that greeted us. The spacious dining area is bookended with an open kitchen, and opposite a breathtaking wall of wine.
We found ourselves a cosy corner in front of an open fire and awaited our arrival cocktails. Neither the Kahani Royale nor the SW1 disappointed. The former is a tasty twist on a traditional Royale, using Elephant sloe gin and pomegranate juice, the latter a dry iced showstopper featuring saffron and cardamon infused silver tequila mixed with Cointreau, lime juice and fresh mint. We thought we’d tasted the most innovative margaritas out there, but the SW1 took our breath away.
The menu at Kahani is simple yet effective. Innovative takes on traditional Indian dishes, and a few unexpected surprises.
Small plates work well as sharing starters, we recommend the trio of samosa which comprises Punjabi aloo, kolhapuri chicken and chettinad lamb, and the spiced chickpeas with sweetened yoghurt, mint, tamarind chutney and papdi – a rich blend of spiced chickpeas topped with a cooling and tangy yoghurt.
The ambience is relaxed and easy going, and real competition for many neighbouring SW1 venues. Food is brought when it is cooked, fresh from the open kitchen, sizzling on stylish plates you’ll be tempted to wipe clean and slide under your coat as you leave. But we didn’t, honest.
Take your pick from chargrilled dishes including succulent smoked Malabar prawns marinated with fresh turmeric, coconut and curry leaves, a roasted spiced aubergine steak with a milled mustard crust and avocado chutney and a classic chilli tandori chicken, then head on over to the curries.
We plumped for a curry dish each, the lamb biryani with braised fragrant basmati rice exotic spices, mint and coriander, and a classic saag paneer. To top off our feast we grabbed a side of garlic naan and what was simply the tastiest tadka dahl we’ve ever tasted. For such a simple dish, the dahl was packed with flavour and un-put-downable. All was cooked to perfection, with just the paneer dish lacking a little flavour or punch.
When it comes to desserts, you’re spoilt for choice, so don’t make the mistake we did and fill up too much beforehand! Sadly we were unable to fit anything else in, but the raspberry and cardamom cheesecake looked oh so tempting, as did our neighbouring table’s medley of kulfis — salted caramel, rose malai and pistachio.
Kahani is a relaxed and stylish venue that offers great value for money on one of London’s priciest districts. Book ahead as it fills up quickly, and the bustling atmosphere just adds to its charm.
- For more information and to book, visit kahanilondon.com.
