PARO embodies a fusion of tradition and innovation, offering a modern Indian dining experience rooted in the rich culinary heritage of Kolkata based in Covent Garden. Its concept revolves around crafting authentic dishes infused with contemporary twists, inviting us to embark on a culinary journey that celebrates the diverse flavours and spices of Indian cuisine.
The Chef – Niaz Caan
At the helm of PARO is Niaz Caan, a visionary with a passion for culinary excellence. Growing up in a family of restaurateurs and trained in some of the UK’s finest kitchens, Niaz brings unparalleled expertise and an attitude that embodies proper hospitality. He is confident, pragmatic and his mastery in marrying flavours, textures, and aromas reflects his dedication to preserving the authenticity of Indian cuisine while pushing the boundaries of culinary innovation.
Elegant Ambiance and Design
PARO’s interiors exude elegance and sophistication, seamlessly blending modern design elements with timeless accents. The ambiance reflects the vibrant energy of Kolkata’s streets, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere for guests to dine and unwind in style.
Central London Charm
Nestled in the heart of Covent Garden, PARO enjoys a prime location in one of London’s most iconic neighbourhoods. Surrounded by theatres, shops, and cultural landmarks, the restaurant offers a convenient and vibrant setting to indulge in an unforgettable dining experience. Even on a Monday night this place is buzzing!
Paro’s Culinary Creations
PARO’s menu showcases a curated selection of dishes crafted from the finest ingredients sourced locally and globally. Each dish is a symphony of flavours and spices, meticulously prepared to perfection by Chef Niaz and his team. From traditional classics to innovative creations, every bite at PARO is a culinary delight that pays homage to Kolkata’s culinary heritage.
For those seeking robust and intense flavors, delve into dishes like the Gunpowder Lamb, boasting Welsh grass-fed lamb mince glazed with tangy tamarind and accompanied by spiced potatoes and fragrant fenugreek seeds. Or opt for the traditional yet fiery Daadee’s Chicken Naga, where Paro’s signature 48 spice mix intertwines with a blend of naga chili, fenugreek, cloves, and coriander, delivering a flavour explosion that lingers on the palate.
The legendary GEEZA NAAN
Seafood enthusiasts can indulge in the Seabass or King Prawn Kalibabu, a fiery yet velvety homage to West Bengal’s coastal cuisine, or relish the Prawn Puri, featuring a medley of ginger-garlic, turmeric, and sweet paprika atop tender puri bread, creating a symphony of textures and aromas that captivate the senses. Alternatively, the Toddy Shop Tiger Prawns offer a delightful fusion of Paro’s signature spice blend with a plum tomato base, garlic, and ginger, delivering a dish that balances sweetness with a tantalising hint of spice, reminiscent of Kolkata’s bustling streets.
Complementing these culinary delights are PARO’s exquisite selection of sides, meticulously crafted to enhance your dining experience. Our favourite was the ULTIMATE naan bread called the geeza naan. Easily one of the best naan breads in London, it combines creamy cheese, garlic, and hot, spicy keema (minced lamb).
The Drinks
Alongside the exquisite cuisine, you can find a rather impressive selection of drinks. From handcrafted cocktails infused with Indian-inspired flavours to curated wine pairings that elevate the dining experience, the beverage menu at PARO offers something for every palate.
Paro’s cocktails represent Kolkata’s vibrant spirit, featuring creations such as the iconic Jab We Met Martinis, a mix of gin, vermouth, and orange bitter, evoking the romance of Indian cinema, or Dadi’s Daiquiri, a blend of rum, lime juice, and Paro’s signature sugar syrup.
Embracing Kolkata’s Culinary Heritage
What sets PARO apart is its deep-rooted connection to Kolkata, known for its vibrant street food culture and rich culinary traditions. PARO’s dishes are crafted using a secret blend of 48 spices sourced from the bazaars of Kolkata, each carrying a story from the bustling streets of the city. This unique blend of tradition and innovation, combined with Chef Niaz’s culinary expertise, makes PARO a standout destination for modern Indian cuisine in London.
Discover more at paroindian.com
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All imagery courtesy of PARO Indian.