Tamarind

One of London’s smartest Indian restaurants, Tamarind’s basement dining room is popular for top-level business entertaining – particularly with overseas clients, for whom the idea of a Michelin-starred Indian may be a novelty – & well-heeled families from the subcontinent. Kebabs cooked in the tandoor are a house speciality, from a terrific starter of seekh kebab (smoked ground lamb with spices, peppers & cheese) to a main course of grilled kingfish marinated in ginger, chillis, yoghurt, spices & lime; elsewhere are zingy salads (melon, plums & kumquats in a pine nut & honey dressing, say), rich curries such as Malabar seafood stew, & superior side orders, from vividly flavoured chutneys to a dhal to die for. Naturally, none of it comes cheap, especially when you factor in a global wine list with slim pickings under £35, but the slick, polished setting & cheerful service are some compensation.