Moti Mahal, located in Covent Garden, serves impeccable, Michelin Star Indian cuisine. Head Chef Anirudh Arora has created a menu that screams of his life-long passion for the cuisines of India’s Grand Trunk Road, and we had heard exceptional things. Being Indian cuisine lovers, we could not wait to check it out.
When we arrived, we were shown to our table by a friendly host, and having been in great anticipation the whole way, we were quick to make our choices.
“The flavour combinations were out of this world”
To start, we chose the Barra Peshwari - Peshawar tandoor roasted lamb chops with Kashmiri chillies, tomato salad and avocado chutney - and the Achari Jhinga - Delhi tandoor roasted jumbo prawns marinated in pickling spices. Both dishes were impeccably presented, and may have been too good to eat, if the aroma wasn’t so enticing. The flavour combinations were out of this world, and we could not wait for our main courses to arrive.
For our mains, we thoroughly enjoyed the Murgh Makhani - Delhi chicken tikka simmered in a creamy, tomato sauce - and the Paneer Akhrot Ka Qorma - Beanares Paneer simmered with walnuts in a peppery tomato sauce. As sides, we chose the raita, the Dal makhini, the pulao and a naan bread.
We finished our meal with the Chef’s selection of mini kulfis on the stick. These included one pistachio kulfi, and one mango. They were both divine.
To accompany our meal, we opted for a bottle of the 2010 Montesecondo Chianti Classico, Tuscany, Italy.
Due to the quality and beauty of the food at Moti Mahal, we are seriously considering attending one of Anirudh Arora’s fornightly cookery classes that take place at the restaurant. They happen every other Saturday morning, and help you to recreate Indian dishes at home. This is a must attend class for any Indian lover. There are two, two-hour classes to choose from and they are followed by lunch, allowing you to taste you wares. I can’t think of a better way to spend a Saturday!
What can we say about Moti Mahal, except that the rumours are true? This truly is an excellent restaurant that serves outstanding Indian cuisine. If you’re a fan, I cannot recommend it highly enough as a restaurant with an excellent atmosphere and impeccable Indian food. This restaurant is high on our re-visit list, and we hope that it’s on your to visit list also.
The Bill: £58 per head
