It feels like just yesterday that the idea of an Indian restaurant earning a Michelin star was a distant dream. Back in 2001, Tamarind and Zaika in London were the trailblazers, breaking ground and proving that the intricate, vibrant world of Indian cuisine could indeed command the highest culinary accolades. Fast forward to today, and the landscape has dramatically shifted. Indian chefs, both in its homeland and across the globe, are not just cooking; they're innovating, pushing boundaries, and creating experiences that are as intellectually stimulating as they are delicious.
London, as many know, has long been a vibrant hub for Indian food, boasting an incredible diversity that spans from the rich curries of the North to the coastal delights of Kerala. It's no surprise, then, that the city continues to be a strong contender for top-tier Indian dining. Take Benares, for instance. Nestled in the prestigious Berkeley Square, it’s a place where the finest British ingredients are thoughtfully married with traditional Indian flavours and contemporary techniques. Imagine hand-dived Scottish scallops and Portsmouth clams gracing a menu, all within an elegant setting featuring a serene, flower-filled pond. It’s a testament to how Indian culinary artistry can be presented with a distinctly British sensibility.
But the global reach of exceptional Indian cuisine extends far beyond London. Dubai, with its significant Indian expatriate community, has become a powerhouse for regional Indian gastronomy. Trèsind Studio, for example, has recently etched its name in culinary history by becoming the first Indian restaurant ever to achieve Three Michelin Stars. Chef Himanshu Saini orchestrates a symphony of flavours in a space that feels more like a chic Mumbai loft than a stuffy fine-dining establishment. Think subway tiles, warm wood, and industrial lighting – a setting that perfectly complements the zero-pretension approach to incredibly inventive dishes. Their tasting menu is a journey through India's diverse culinary tapestry, often transforming local UAE produce, particularly fish, seafood, and vegetables, into visually stunning and unforgettable creations. Dishes like ghee-roast crab with burnt cinnamon or lobster tail with pickled carrot and Alleppey curry showcase this artistry, while main courses such as kebab scarpetta with sourdough toasts offer a nod to the northern plains and the Himalayas. And before you even sit down, the Popadom Botanic Bar offers a delightful prelude with its signature cocktails.
Avatāra in Dubai is another standout, holding the distinction of being the world's first vegetarian One Michelin Star Indian restaurant. It’s a bold reimagining of plant-based dining, deeply rooted in India's rich vegetarian heritage. Presenting 18 dishes that celebrate local produce, it offers highlights like broccolini, asparagus, and tomato curry pickle, or a refreshing passion fruit, strawberry, and spiced guava water sorbet. The intimate setting, with its altar-like central table where chefs add finishing touches to each dish, creates a truly immersive and thrilling experience.
Jamavar, a name that resonates across continents, has also made its mark in Dubai, following successful outposts in London and Doha. Located in the Opera district, its opulent interiors, complete with grand chandeliers and a plush cocktail bar, set the stage for a menu that prioritizes prime ingredients. The spices are masterfully balanced, with signature dishes like bhatti ka octopus and sindhi methi gosht (goat curry) demonstrating the kitchen's profound craft. The Dubai outpost, run by Samyukta Nai, is the group's third, continuing a legacy of refined Indian dining.
Qatar, too, is witnessing a surge in its Indian culinary scene, fueled by its own substantial Indian expat population. Indian food is no longer just a niche offering; it's woven into the very fabric of the dining landscape. Jamavar Doha, the first international venture of the acclaimed London original, brings its beloved pan-Indian concept to the Sheraton Grand Hotel. Inspired by the grandeur of New Delhi's Viceroy’s House, the restaurant's interior features warm grey oak paneling and chalk...
