Bombay Brasserie, the iconic Kensington restaurant, opened in 1982, committed to showcasing the best of Bombay (now Mumbai) and Indian cuisine. Its mix of authentic and eclectic dishes has ensured its success over the years. An invite to check out its newly refurbished interiors, a food masterclass with Executive Chef, Prahlad Hegde, and a chance to sample the new menu was an offer not to be refused!
We were lucky enough to meet Prahlad who has worked at Bombay Brasserie since 1991. He showed us the art of marinating, chatting to us about the importance of using the freshest ingredients and grinding your own spices all while effortlessly making Crispy Prawns with a Trio of Peppercorns, Tulsi Chicken Tikka and Lamb Seekh Kebab! The herbs, spices, peppercorns and chillies all looked, and smelled, amazing! Prahlad then took us into the main kitchen to show us the charcoal tandoor oven used to cook naan and kebabs. It was so interesting to see the chefs working, how they manage with the quantity of orders in that heat is beyond me!
Our stomachs rumbling, we were taken into the conservatory for our tasting menu. The whole restaurant was beautifully decorated, sparkling chandeliers mixed with lush green plants and extravagant ornaments. It really didn’t feel like you were a 2 minute walk from Gloucester Road tube station!
We were able to sample a large range of the dishes available, and when I say large selection I really mean it! Deep breath, we had… Sev Batata Puri, Adraki Lamb Chops, Tulsi Chicken Tikka, Palak Patta Chaat, Pumpkin Soup with Truffle Oil, Masala Sea Bass, Chicken Makhani, Tandoori Raan, Dal Makhani, Aloo Roast Potatoes, Olive Naan, Saffron Pulao and then to finish a trio of Raspberry Chocolate, Chocolate Brownie and Tender Coconut Ice Cream. Phew!
I’m not normally a huge fan of lamb but it was the two lamb dishes that stood out for me! The Adraki Lamb Chops were beautifully cooked with just enough of a spicy kick and the Tandoori Raan (braised lamb shank, cinnamon, black cumin, vinegar) was amazing. The meat fell off the bone and practically melted in your mouth! The flavours were beautiful and complemented each other perfectly. Certainly a must order for me!
The Palak Patta Chaat (crispy fried baby spinach, yoghurt, date and tamarind chutney), Masala Sea Bass (pan fried chilean sea bass, spinach, mushroom) and Dal Makhani (black lentils, tomato, butter, cream) are also worth a special mention!
If you’re craving Indian food but looking for something a little more special than the takeaway down the road then Bombay Brasserie is a must visit. I don’t think there was one of us who didn’t leave feeling completely stuffed but wishing we could have had just one more mouthful!
