Chokhi Dhani (Bar, Restaurant)

Top 10 things you need to know about Chokhi Dhani:

1) Chokhi Dhani, meaning “excellent village”, is an exciting Indian culinary experience and a celebration of all things royal Rajasthan – a social melting pot of food, drink, entertainment and culture (and one of the best Indian restaurants in London). You can do all this good stuff in one restaurant, overlooking the river between Battersea Park and Vauxhall, just near Battersea Power Station.

2) Downstairs, expect a relaxed street food offering of small plates; all dishes £5 or under. Try the chicken lollipop pakoras or spice things up with chickpea-filled padron chillies.

3) Ascend upstairs for fine dining and aristocratic luxury. As well as gorgeous looking plates from this ancient princely state, you can also indulge in cuisine from across the Indian subcontinent. From the tandoor, the tamarind dusted foie gras will make you feel regal, and if it doesn’t, the gigantic tiger prawns (they really are huge) in Goan spices most definitely will.

4) More than 70% of Rajasthan is vegetarian, making it the most vegetarian state in India. The paneer palak at Chokhi Dhani combines three styles of spinach and paneer cheese in such a pretty, delicious way that no wonder vegetarian dishes are the most popular option in Rajasthan. This was our highlight of the night.

5) Drinks also receive the royal treatment with their bespoke cocktail list. The refreshing Betelita uses the peppery Betel leaf along with tequila, mango and cardamom. If you are driving, sample their signature tea list and enjoy a proper sweet masala chai or the Bengal Amber Edge – a blend of Assam tea, lemon, cardamom, cloves and black pepper.

6) Expect to experience much more with a unique entertainment offering, Thursday to Sunday evening: dancers and singers through to palmists and henna artists. Be astounded by Magic Junior and his mind-reading, telekinesis and fire manipulation skills. Be sure to check what entertainment is on when you book a table.

7) The decor is majestic; from the larger-than-life sized bronze elephant that guards the front entrance through to the handmade Rajasthani furniture and colourful Indian art.

8) They have a library (yes, a library) which covers everything from Rajasthani culture through to the Kama Sutra, yoga and wellbeing. Perfect for a lazy weekend afternoon or for your designated “work from home” day! Mum’s the word.

9) Take the fun outdoors on to their heated terrace where you can enjoy over 60 shisha flavours (inhaling is optional). If you don’t find one that you like, they can create a bespoke one just for you.

10) They have 15 free car parking spaces available. A rare luxury in London. All you need to do now is work out who is the designated driver. ...read more