As a self-proclaimed Indian cuisine aficionado and connoisseur, having lived briefly in India and visited numerous Indian restaurants around the world, my recent visit to Gymkhana in London blew every other Indian dining experience out of the water! This place isn’t just good; it’s two Michelin-starred, mind-blowing, and easily the best Indian food I’ve ever had.
A Warm Welcome and Passionate Service
Gymkhana’s menu is inspired by the elite clubs of India. The restaurant offers a variety of dishes, including tandoori masala lamb chops, kid goat methi keema, and quail seekh kebab. The restaurant also has an extensive wine list and a selection of cocktails.
The moment I stepped into the elegant dining room, I was greeted by a warm and inviting atmosphere. The attentive staff immediately made me feel welcome, and their knowledge and passion for the cuisine were evident throughout the meal.
Gymkhana.
Quirky staircase down to the lower dining room.
For lunch, I opted for the tasting menu, eager to sample a variety of Gymkhana’s signature dishes. The meal began with an amuse-bouche of papad and chutneys, a delightful prelude to the culinary journey ahead.
Papad with different chutneys.
The meal started with the delicious Aloo Chaat, a symphony of crispy potatoes, tangy chutneys, and cooling yogurt that set the stage for the flavorful feast to come.
Aloo chaat.
A Culinary Symphony
For my starter, I chose the succulent chicken tikka, which was perfectly cooked in the tandoor and bursting with flavor.
Chicken Tikka.
The main course was a revelation: the kid goat methi keema, a rich and fragrant curry, was melt-in-your-mouth tender and paired perfectly with the accompanying bread basket–some of the best naan I’ve had. The kid goad methi keema didn’t look like much, but was absolutely the superstar of my meal. There was also some white rice, but no one gives a shit.
Kid Goat Methi Keema.
Given Gymkhana’s reputation for its exceptional lamb dishes, I couldn’t resist ordering an extra side of the tandoori masala lamb chops. And let me tell you, they were the best lamb chops I have ever tasted. The meat was incredibly tender and flavorful, with just the right amount of char from the tandoor.
From start to finish, the service was impeccable. The staff was attentive without being intrusive, and they were always happy to answer any questions I had about the food or the restaurant’s history. It was some of the best service I’ve ever experienced in a restaurant, and it truly elevated the entire dining experience.
While Gymkhana may not be the most budget-friendly option (lunch set me back about $140), the exceptional food and service make it well worth the splurge. I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a truly memorable Indian dining experience in London.