Sindhu Restaurant, by Michelin-starred chef Atul Kochhar, is a culinary gem in the heart of Marlow. The beautiful riverside town turned gastronomic paradise is firmly on the foodie map for many reasons, one of which is Atul Kocchar. Not only did he change the way people perceive and experience Indian cuisine, but he was also one of the first two Indian chefs to receive a Michelin star.
Sindhu Marlow
A Picturesque Town And A Unique Restaurant
Marlow, with its historic streets, boutique shops, and thriving dining scene that manifests charm and elegance. The name “Sindhu”, derived from classical Sanskrit, means “river”, reflecting the restaurant’s picturesque location along the River Thames. Housed within the Macdonald Compleat Angler Hotel, Sindhu offers a fine dining experience that captures the essence of Southern India, using the finest British ingredients to create bold, flavourful, and exquisitely presented dishes. Service is charming and led by Jaspreet who has been at Sindhu since the restaurant opened.
The Sindhu Experience by Atul Kochhar
Sindhu celebrates the best of traditional Indian cuisine, balancing flavour authenticity with modern sophistication. At the helm of Sindhu is Chef Kochhar, the man who made Indian food what it is in the UK, bringing over 25 years of culinary expertise to Sindhu.
Atul acknowledges that quality, ethically sourced and finely preserved ingredients create the most fantastic food and sources the best of Southern India, from distinctive Mangalorean spices to the authentic ingredients for the meats of Kerala.
Innovation and tradition define the Sindhu approach to Indian cuisine, which combines tradition with modern British influences. His culinary artistry combines fearless flavours, inventive techniques and a deep respect for Indian heritage. His unique style ensures that each dish is a gastronomic journey through India’s varied culinary landscape.
A Room with River Views
Inspired by India’s majestic rivers, which have long been the lifeline of culture, cuisine and tradition, Sindhu’s interior design will enhance your immersion in the reality of Indian nature. Rich saffron tones, plush furnishings and vibrant artwork create a warm and sophisticated ambience, making it an idyllic setting for intimate dinners, gatherings and memorable dining experiences.
The Culinary Journey at Sindhu
There are three different menu options: Á La Carte, Lunch Menu and Tasting Menu. Each menu has some dishes only available on that menu like the brilliant prawn and masala uttapam on the lunch menu, Scallop n Caviar on the tasting menu and the venison with curry leaf mash on the a la carte menu.
As well as the food, there is a bespoke cocktail list featuring a really brilliant Sindhu Martini made with gin, ginger, lemongrass, lime and… curry leaves! Genius. The curry leaves gave this cocktail such a unique, moreish taste. A really clever use of such a complex ingredient. Wines are carefully chosen and work well with the food.
The experience of the A La Carte Menu
Perhaps you start with the Nandu Varuval, where soft-shell crab is delicately marinated in moilee sauce, offering a balance of crunch and silkiness. A must-try is the Sindhu mixed platter of chicken tikka, prawn, lamb seekh kebab and paneer. A great portion that can also be shared.
As you move on to the main course, the Ambur-style Dum Biryani transports you to the bustling kitchens of Tamil Nadu, where slow-cooked aromatic rice meets the rich essence of the spiced meat of choice. The lobster with chilli and garlic butter is a nod to the perfect fusion of Indian and global influences with its berry chutney, edamame sundal and mappas sauce. The dish we saw leaving the kitchen on a very regular basis was the lamb Chettinadu, the most tender and flavourful south Tamilnadu lamb curry with Chettinad spices.
For something sweet, the ‘5-River Rum’ Gulab Jamun, which is both a spectacle and a delight, is flambéed at the table. On the more traditional side is the Rasmalai, which has whispers of Mughal indulgence with cottage cheese dumplings poached in saffron milk and decorated with fragrant rose petals and nuts.
A great value Lunch Menu
Sindhu’s Lunch Menu is exceptional value and features dishes like seabass, oven-roasted to perfection and paired with kasundi mustard sauce and kohlrabi sunbal. The Jackfruit Pulihora Bowl served with Railway Kuruma and beetroot yoghurt also delivers warmth and depth, making it a snuggly choice.
Tasting Menus
The Tasting Menu at Sindhu provides a multi-course experience, highlighting Atul’s signature creations. There are a few tasting menus for you to choose from, including pescatarian, vegetarian and vegan choices. Moreover, you can choose to elevate the experience with thoughtfully selected wines. Each course is meticulously paired with wines.
Overall
Sindhu is a destination where India’s culinary heritage is reflected through contemporary artistry. Whether you find yourself in Marlow for its charming streets or simply lose yourself in an unforgettable dining experience, Sindhu promises a riverside journey of taste and sophistication.
To discover more at Sindhu
View this post on Instagram
All imagery courtesy Sindhu Marlow.