London’s food scene is constantly evolving, but every so often a restaurant opens that feels like it will set a new benchmark. Vatavaran London, tucked away in the heart of Mayfair, is exactly that kind of place. The restaurant brings together stunning interiors, inventive Indian cooking, and an exciting drinks programme. It is the latest venture from restaurateur Abhi Sangwan, whose name you may already know from the critically acclaimed Kutir and Manthan.
With culinary direction from celebrated chef Rohit Ghai, Vatavaran combines artistry, flavour, and hospitality across three beautifully designed floors. It’s not just a restaurant — it’s a full sensory experience.
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Interiors That Wow from the Moment You Enter
One of the first things that sets Vatavaran apart is its interior design. Spread over three unique floors, each space tells its own story while staying cohesive in theme.
- The ground floor welcomes you with a blue palette — calming, sophisticated, and perfect for intimate dining or a quiet dinner for two.
- The middle floor, dressed in rich greens, reflects freshness and vibrancy, giving the feeling of dining in a modern garden setting.
- The top floor is adorned in warm maroon reddish tones and houses Shikhar, a stylish bar and private lounge. Whether you’re in the mood for pre-dinner cocktails or a late-night gathering, Shikhar delivers the perfect ambiance.
Each floor feels distinct, yet together they form a journey — much like the food itself. The décor isn’t just a backdrop; it amplifies the dining experience, making every visit memorable.
A Tasting Menu Worth Talking About
Vatavaran’s tasting menu (see full menu here) is where Chef Rohit Ghai’s culinary creativity truly shines. Known for his refined approach to Indian cuisine, Rohit Ghai has an extraordinary ability to balance tradition with innovation.
During our visit, highlights from the tasting menu included:
- Aloo Tikki – crisp potato patties with layers of spice, familiar yet elevated.
- HISPI ~ Cabbage – a revelation. Easily one of the best cabbage dishes I have ever had, transformed into something luxurious and flavour-packed.
- Duck ~ Seekh Kebab – rich, smoky, and perfectly seasoned, a creative take on a classic kebab.
- Paneer Makhni – customised for me with butter chicken gravy; indulgent, silky, and utterly satisfying.
- Lamb ~ Barbat – slow-cooked lamb that was tender, aromatic, and beautifully presented.
These were served with comforting Kaali Dal, Steamed Rice, and Breads, bringing balance and heartiness to the refined plates.
What stands out about Rohit Ghai’s food is the way he honours Indian traditions while reimagining them for a modern audience. Each dish feels both rooted in heritage and refreshingly new.
Cocktails That Redefine Expectations
Alongside the food, Vatavaran offers an exciting cocktail list (see here) that deserves attention in its own right. Much like the food, the drinks tell stories and reimagine familiar flavours.
Some of the standouts we tried included:
- Kendra ~ Gin – inspired by jalebi, this cocktail was playful, sweet, and utterly unique.
- Mihira ~ Scotch – bold, warming, with an unexpected twist of cardamom that worked beautifully.
- Sikkim ~ Vodka – crisp and refreshing, a lighter option with subtle layers of flavour.
- Himaani ~ Prosecco – sparkling, elegant, and a perfect way to start the evening.
The cocktails are as carefully crafted as the food, each one designed to complement the restaurant’s ethos of innovation and refinement.
The People Behind Vatavaran
A restaurant is only as good as the people behind it, and Vatavaran benefits from a dream team.
Abhi Sangwan, the restaurateur, has already proven his vision with Kutir, which has become a beloved modern Indian restaurant in Chelsea, and Manthan, a vibrant spot in Mayfair. His ability to combine style, substance, and a deep respect for Indian culinary traditions is evident in Vatavaran.
Then there’s Chef Rohit Ghai, whose reputation precedes him. He is the first Indian chef in London to earn a Michelin star (for Gymkhana) and has since built a name for himself with restaurants like Kutir and Manthan. At Vatavaran, his signature approach — refined, elegant, yet rooted in bold Indian flavours — is front and centre.
Together, Sangwan and Ghai make Vatavaran not just another restaurant opening, but a statement of intent: Indian fine dining in London continues to evolve, and Vatavaran is at the forefront.
Why You Should Visit Vatavaran
So why should Vatavaran be on your list? Here are just a few reasons:
- Stunning interiors – each of the three floors offers a different vibe, from calm blues to lively greens and the stylish Shikhar lounge.
- Inventive tasting menus – dishes like HISPI cabbage and Duck Seekh Kebab showcase Indian flavours in a whole new light.
- Creative cocktails – unique drinks like the jalebi-inspired Kendra prove that the bar is as innovative as the kitchen.
- Proven pedigree – with Abhi Sangwan’s vision and Rohit Ghai’s culinary mastery, you’re in expert hands.
- Location – nestled in Knightsbridge, it’s a perfect spot for a refined evening out, whether dining with friends, family, or colleagues or even good dining spot post shopping at Harrods.
Final Thoughts
Vatavaran London is not just another addition to Knightsbridge’s dining scene — it’s a bold and exciting evolution of Indian fine dining. With its stunning interiors, imaginative menus, and the combined expertise of Abhi Sangwan and Rohit Ghai, this is a restaurant that feels both luxurious and welcoming.
Whether you’re here for the tasting menu, cocktails at Shikhar, or simply to soak in the atmosphere, Vatavaran delivers on every level. It’s a dining experience that will stay with you long after you leave.
If you’re searching for one of the best new restaurants in London, Vatavaran is an absolute must-visit.