Asian Michelin Stars. London. UK.
As London is one of my favorite cities I try to go there a couple of times a year. My main interests are A) to watch top level football (I am a Chelsea FC supporter), B) to explore culinary trends and C) to visit world class exhibitions such as recently one about Banksy.
London boasts a good selection of high class ethnic restaurants, above all Asian. In my view London is the best place for Asian cuisine in Europe. Join me on my little excursion to two Michelin Star restaurants, one Indian and one Chinese.
Jamavar is a one Michelin star restaurant in the heart of Mayfair, mostly fully booked by hedge fund money managers that are headquartered nearby. They obviously enjoy the doorman welcoming them. The interior is classic – reminds the guest rather of a French Brasserie.
One of my favorites already as 1st starter: Soft Shell Crab. I can’t get it back home, but I just love it. Tellicherry Pepper & Garlic Soft Shell Crab. Plum Chutney, garlic chips & homemade garlic pickle on the side.
Next a crustacean that I love at least as much if not more: Lobster Idli Sambhar. Black pepper spiced lobster, rice & lentil cakes plus vegetabel stew.
What a juicy, perfectly seared Malai Stone Bass Tikka. With mace, green cardamon, avocado & mint chutney.
Chicken Tikka is surely one of the classics of Indian cuisines. I have tried to prepare it myself. Nothing compared to this Tulsi Chicken Tikka with sweet basil, pickled radish & yogurt.
Probably the highlight of the dinner: Malvani Prawn Curry. King prawns, coconut milk, tamarind & homemade Malvan spice mix.
Super tender king prawns in a succulent curry sauce. I would not have minded to drown in this incredibly delicious juice.
Usually I do not really crave for Asian desserts. This Chocolate Coffee Delice with cardamon ice cream was different.
Kaion the other hand, is a Michelin star restaurant that specializes in the Chinese Nanyang kitchen. ‘A Nest of Imperial Jewels’ with chopped prawns, mustard greens, and butterhead lettuce wraps makes a great Entree to the evening.
I’ve probably had hundreds of “Hot and Sour soups” in my life, many of which mediocre. I just love soups in general and spices in particular. This Hot & Sour version was absolutely the best I’ve ever had: perfect texture, and a finely balanced spiciness. Superb.
Another classic that is always a test for me for the quality of Asian Cuisine: Black Pepper Beef from Scottish Fillet with crushed black pepper, garlic flakes and sliced Chinese croissant. Again, top class.
For the sweet tooth to round up a great Chinese cuisine experience.
I had two excellent evenings in London enjoying world class ethnic Asian food. In my view, both places well deserve their high decorations with one Michelin Star. I’ll be back.