If you are looking for a truly authentic Indian cuisine experience, you must head to Thali. Situated on the popular Old Brompton Road Thali specialises in providing its diners with a North Indian dining experience like no other.
Dining at Thali goes far beyond the food. As soon as you enter the quaint restaurant, you will find, like we did, that you are immersing yourself not only to the delicious food on offer, but to the unique culture surrounding it.
Within a simple and elegant décor, a selection of small tables dotted the venue and a quiet hum of people in deep conversation filled the room. As soon as we were seated, an attentive waiter approached us and provided some assistance regarding the menu, explaining the dishes and from where it derived. Thali aims to provide diners with a deeper understanding of the dishes beneath just the taste; adding something a little special to the culinary experience.
To start we had the unbelievably delicious Vegetable Hara Kebab. Chickpeas, spinach and green chilli are infused together for a mouth-watering sensation. We immediately realised that this Indian restaurant does not hold back when it comes to the spices. The food is incredibly flavourful and rather than dulling it down for the European taste, Thali embraces it and encourages diners to embrace it too. And we did. We particularly loved the Palak Chaat, a starter like no other, crispy spinach is given a unique taste as it is combined with yoghurt, mint and chutney. Incredibly light it is the perfect starter for vegetarians, and for those wanting to leave some room for the main and dessert to come.
Speaking of which, you must order the Baigani Chicken for the main. Tender chicken pieces, chopped onions and tomatoes are encased in a half-cut aubergine laid perfectly on a small pile of soft rice, smothered in a delicious masala sauce. Words cannot do this dish justice. It was simply a pleasure to eat. As for dessert, if of course there is any room left, the Gulab Jamun is one to try. Think milk dough dumplings floating on hot sweet syrup. A complete contrast in flavour from the starters and mains, this incredibly sweet dish is for those with a sweet tooth. If however you would prefer something a little cooler, we recommend the exotic Kulfi, Indian ice cream made from pistachio which is then garnished with a coulis.
If you do decide to head to Thali, we advise arriving with an empty stomach. Trust us, it will be worth it.
For more information and to book visit www.thali.uk.com
If only we could end every night with Lola’s delicious Cocktail Cupcakes…