One of my favourite tasting menu of the year: ‘The Hunter’s Expedition’, designed by Michelin-starred chef Rohit Ghai. Featuring seasonal game dishes elevated with innovative Indian techniques, the menu showcases bold flavours and creative twists on classic recipes, all set in the elegant and cosy ambience of Kutir’s Chelsea townhouse. With an inviting rooftop terrace and a carefully curated wine and cocktail list, Kutir has always celebrated the rich culinary heritage of India.
The Mastermind Behind the Tasting Menu
Chef Rohit Ghai is a celebrated culinary figure known for his precise techniques and innovative approach to Indian cuisine. After making a name for himself in London’s fine dining scene, he opened his first solo restaurant Kutir in 2018 with the brilliant Abhi Sangwan which quickly garnered critical acclaim. Over the years, he has expanded his culinary influence globally, launching a series of successful restaurants including Ishka 360 in Doha, Manthan Mayfair in London, Aangan in Oman, Gup & Shup in Dubai, and Rivayat in Marrakech in 2023. Ghai’s inventive dishes have earned him praise from celebrities and food critics alike, while his appearances on shows such as BBC MasterChef and Zee TV have further cemented his status as one of the most in-demand chefs today.
As the first Indian chef to win a Michelin star for Jamavar within just ten months of its opening, Rohit has become synonymous with refined Indian cuisine. His food, inspired by the rich culinary diversity of India, showcases an array of flavours from vibrant curries to lesser-known regional dishes. His creative vision is also reflected in his cookbook “Tarkari,” which offers a glimpse into his approach to modern Indian cooking. Through his growing restaurant portfolio and culinary achievements, Rohit continues to shape the global perception of Indian cuisine, blending tradition with innovation.
Hunter’s Expedition: A Tasting Menu Celebrating Great Game
Kutir’s newly launched ‘Hunter’s Expedition’ tasting menu perfectly embodies Kutir’s ethos, taking us on a culinary journey that mirrors the restaurant’s inspiration from India’s grand wildlife lodges. The menu’s focus on seasonal game, elevated with traditional Indian spices and techniques, echoes the spirit of the feasts once held in these remote lodges, where the finest local produce was transformed into celebratory meals. The £75 per person menu is great value and features standout dishes like Guinea Fowl Biryani Dumplings and Partridge Chettinad. This menu not only showcases the rich, earthy flavours of autumn but also highlights the restaurant’s dedication to presenting classic Indian flavours with a modern twist.
Kutir’s ‘Hunters Expedition Tasting Menu’ includes:
- Guinea Fowl – Biryani: Dumplings, fried onions, and yoghurt paired with Gobillard, Brut Rosé, and Hautvillers from Champagne France.
- Grouse – Beetroot: Single malt whisky, whole spices, and pickle paired with Bortomagno, Primitivo from Puglia, Italy.
- Partridge – Chettinad: Southern spiced, puff bread, and onion seed paired with Ramon Bilbao from Rioja, Spain.
- Venison – Green Peppercorn: Slow-cooked, clarified butter, and paratha paired with Château Ladignac from France.
Partridge Chettinad brings together the robust South Indian spice blend with succulent partridge, while the Grouse with spices showcased Rohit’s ability to elevate the earthy flavours of game with a delicate balance of aromatic Indian spices. The standout dish was definitely the venison curry. Slow-cooked and earthy, the green peppercorn-infused curry is a winner especially with the flakiest most moreish paratha. Dessert options, including the Chocolate, Chilli and Banana Brûlée or Masala Chai Cheesecake, provide the sweet finale with a hint of spice.
Each dish is meticulously paired with a carefully curated wine or a signature cocktail infused with Indian herbs and spices, designed to enhance the flavour profiles of the menu. The bold, spiced notes of the game dishes are complemented by full-bodied wines with a mixture of white, red, Champagne and even a dessert wine.
Taste the Regions of India
Kutir has always been a favourite here. Voted British Restaurant of the Year at the British Restaurant Awards, the dishes are carefully crafted to represent the regional diversity of Indian cuisine, from the bold spices of the North to the lighter, coastal flavours of the South. Kutir’s menu is paired with an exceptional wine list all set in the chic, intimate atmosphere of a Chelsea townhouse which has such a strong sense of place.
Overall
Kutir’s new ‘Hunter’s Expedition’ tasting menu offers an adventurous and creative take, crafted with the distinctive touch of Chef Rohit Ghai. This menu blends the bold, earthy flavours of autumn with the complexity of Indian spices, presenting a fresh perspective on traditional dishes. From the unique pairing of flavours, each course invites diners to experience something truly original. Accompanied by expertly matched wines and spice-infused cocktails, the tasting menu encapsulates both Chef Ghai and Kutir’s philosophy of honouring India’s culinary heritage while continuously pushing the boundaries of modern dining in a sophisticated, inviting setting.
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All imagery courtesy of Kutir.