Yaatra: Indian Delights In An Historic London Setting
Old Westminster Fire Station has many stories to tell, from its opening in 1906 when horse drawn carriages were dispatched to douse flames threatening local buildings, it stood firm and its crews supported the capital through two world wars.
It’s story now is less life-threatening, more life enhancing, as home to fine dining Indian restaurant Yaatra, a vibrant and enticing restaurant well worthy of its Michelin recommendation.
There are two floors to Yaatra, all elegantly fitted out within the Grade II listed building. Ruby seats and deep burgundy décor give an almost-royal feel to the rooms, but while Yaatra is high-end in appearance, it’s not snobbish or unwelcoming, it’s an excellent opportunity to try authentic Indian dishes bursting with flavour, in a relaxed and welcoming environment.
Having demolished a basket of poppadum and their accompanying tomato and lemongrass, and mint yoghurt chutney dips, we enjoyed a lamb chop starter – two delicately cooked and tender cuts – and an eye-catching chana masala dressed in fresh honey yoghurt and pomegranate seeds on a bed of crushed potatoes and crunchy papdi chat. The tantalising twist in textures gave each mouthful its own unique taste and feel, so simple yet so stunning.
What positions Yaatra as a frontrunner in Westminster dining is the relaxed yet elegant atmosphere, and this is complemented by the attentive and friendly service. Jasmeet was our server and he offered explanations and recommendations on dishes and drinks, but did not push anything nor tire of my inquisitive young companion who was keen to discover each individual herb and spice used in each dish. Jasmeet was the perfect host, and the smiles shared between team members was a silent indication of a positive and fulfilling workplace for staff.
Authentic and innovative Indian delights
Having enjoyed our aperitifs and starters, our expectations for main courses were set high, and thankfully when the dishes arrived they did not disappoint. The vegetarian kebab platter is a veritable meat-free feast featuring tandoori paneer, soya chaap and a vegetable sheekh kebab, served with cucumber relish, mint chutney and sourdough bread. The butter chicken was rich and flavoursome, and complemented perfectly with a our saffron rice and black dal and kidney bean sides.
While Yaatra feels like fine dining, the portions are also plentiful and wholesome, so our one piece of advice is to leave room for dessert – not as easy as it sounds when surrounded by so many mouthwatering dishes.
Having decided to simply share a sorbet trio, Jasmeet managed to convince us to also try the homemade walnut and pecan tart – and wow – are we glad we did?! Served with a delicious cinnamon ice cream, the tart is light and tasty and well worth saving space for. The trio of sorbets – wildberry, plum and tamarind, and kalamansi and mint – were also a step above what we expected, the latter proving especially tangy and pleasing.
A set menu lunch at Yaatra is a very reasonable £34.50 for three courses, while the tasting menu offers exceptional value at £80 per person for seven courses plus petits fours. We went a la carte where you can expect a starter for around £12, and a main from £20-25. We’d recommend two or three sides plus the delicious saffron rice, all of which are also very reasonably priced at an average of £5 each.
Having enjoyed the ambience, service and food, we left Yaatra full to bursting and keen to return. We’re sure you will too!
