Ring the doorbell. Yes, really. This Chelsea fine dining address does not fling its doors open like most restaurants. Instead, tucked inside an elegant Georgian townhouse at 10 Lincoln Street, Kutir asks you to pause, press and wait. That small ritual sets the tone. What follows is a journey into India’s rich heritage and vast wildlife, reimagined through a Michelin-starred lens. Here, every dish carries echoes of forests, feasts and fearless cooking.
Kutir, Sanskrit for “a small cottage in the middle of nowhere”, feels like a delicious paradox in plush Chelsea. This is not another Indian restaurant competing in London’s crowded dining scene. It is the passion project of chef Rohit Ghai and restaurateur Abhishake Sangwan, both veterans in the fine Indian dining space. Since opening in November 2018, it has built a reputation for doing things differently. Named Restaurant of the Year at the British Restaurant Awards 2022, Kutir sits alongside its siblings Manthan in Mayfair and Vatavarun, proof that this duo is shaping a distinct vision of elevated Indian gastronomy.
The Maestro Behind the Magic
Chef Rohit Ghai is one of London’s most celebrated Indian chefs. Originally from Punjab, where his mother’s balanced home cooking sparked his love for food, he trained at the Institute of Hotel Management in New Delhi before moving to London. His career spans some of the capital’s most respected Indian kitchens including Benares, Trishna, Gymkhana, Hoppers and Bombay Bustle. At Jamavar, he secured a Michelin star within ten months. Kutir, his first solo venture, reflects his philosophy clearly: take traditional Indian dishes and refine them without stripping away their soul. Working alongside him is Abhishake Sangwan, whose nearly two decades in London’s restaurant world provide the operational precision behind the scenes. With experience at Red Fort, Tamarind, Yauatcha and Jamavar, Abhishake brings cohesion and polish to the dining experience. He also oversees the bar, where the unique cocktails features grilled fruits, house infusions and botanicals that complement the spice-led menu.
Location & Ambience
Kutir sits in one of London’s most desirable postcodes, moments from Sloane Square and easily reached from South Kensington. Once inside, however, it feels quietly removed from the city. The townhouse layout creates a series of intimate dining rooms rather than one vast space. In one room, natural light pours through a conservatory-style ceiling. In another, an elegant fireplace anchors tables dressed in crisp white linen.
The interiors balance Georgian elegance with references to India’s wildlife-rich hunting lodges. Jewel-toned wallpaper with birds and botanical motifs, upholstered chairs in rich fabrics and subtle brass details create a setting that feels luxurious and organic. A convex mirror above the fireplace, softly glowing wall sconces and layered textures make the space feel like a private home. Table 14, tucked into a corner by the window, is especially romantic for couples.
Feasting like Royalty
Kutir’s menu draws inspiration from various regions of India. Celebratory and comfort sitting confidently alongside seasonal produce. What distinguishes Rohit is his ability to elevate familiar dishes. The cooking respects tradition and embraces modern technique. There is a menu format for every diner. The à la carte allows freedom. The set lunch offers a refined midday escape. The Expedition tasting menus guide guests through India’s regions, with vegetarian and seasonal options celebrating British game such as guinea fowl and partridge through an Indian lens. Vegan tasting menus, gluten-free, dairy-free and halal preparations are handled thoughtfully rather than as afterthoughts.
Stars on Every Plate
Begin with the Prawns Masala. Roscoff prawns are coated in sesame seeds and peanuts, fried until crisp, and served in a fragrant coconut sauce lifted by sweet pink onions. Or Cauliflower Textures, featuring samosas and pickle. The Aloo Tikki chaat delivers crunch, spice and tang in perfect balance alongside honey yogurt.
For mains, the Lamb Shank Nihari is a standout. Slow-cooked lamb shank replaces traditional cubes, creating a dish that is rich and deeply satisfying. The Lamb Chops with black cumin are smoky from the tandoor and brightened with kachumber salad. The Sea Bass Neelgiri, pan-seared with jaggery, tastes clean and vibrant. Even the signature Butter Chicken feels newly polished with tomato, fenugreek and Kashmiri chilli bringing depth and balance. Vegetarians are well served. Paneer Palak is rich in flavour and texture, while the Dum Aloo Makhni could easily outshine a main. The garlic naan is unmissable.
Desserts are indulgent but not heavy. Slow-cooked pineapple with coconut sorbet and pink pepper is refreshing and elegant. Date pecan kulfi with caramel and pistachio offers warmth and familiarity with a modern edge. Seasonal summer additions lean towards lighter coastal curries, vibrant seafood and produce-driven dishes that showcase freshness at its peak. Service is attentive without being intrusive. Staff are knowledgeable, warm and precise. They read the room well and allow the food to remain the focus.
The Bar & Wine List
Kutir’s cocktail programme is confident and creative. The Charitra blends lychee liqueur, white peach and jasmine soda, whereas Alphonso marries Himalayan Hapusa, mangoes and Indian tonic. Fresh fruits are grilled and muddled in-house, layered with botanicals and subtle spice. The wine list is extensive and considered, including rare bottles and Indian selections. Sommeliers guide pairings with clarity and ease.
Private Dining & Occasions
Kutir offers two private dining rooms on the first floor. The Sariska room seats up to 14 guests, while the Ranthambore room accommodates 8 and overlooks the courtyard. Both are ideal for pre-wedding dinners, milestone celebrations and intimate events. Bespoke menus can be arranged, and Chef Rohit may greet guests on request. Gift vouchers are available for special occasions. They don’t just extend a meal, but an experience worth remembering.
Valentine’s Day
For Valentine’s Day, Kutir has curated a special menu designed for sharing. Expect indulgent ingredients, refined presentations and a setting that naturally lends itself to romance. Tables fill quickly, particularly those coveted corner spots.
For more information:
Kutir
www.Kutir.co.uk
