Chokhi Dhani

A life-size 14-foot-high bronze elephant greets you outside Chokhi Dhani, setting the tone for a menu and interiors inspired by the grand maharajahs of Rajasthan. This Indian brand is known for combining food, entertainment and shopping in its home country, so it’s no surprise that the venue is stuffed with authentic arts and crafts– many available to buy – while fortune tellers and henna artists keep punters amused at weekends. The ground floor and terrace offer Indian street food such as ragada (potato patties topped with spicy white peas), while upstairs the à la carte menu features theatrically presented signature dishes, plus classic Rajasthani small plates and grills from the tandoor. Highlights included kadak momo chaat, a deep-fried potato basket filled with crispy vegetable dumplings and spicy chickpeas laced with tangy tamarind sauce; aromatic seafood pilau wrapped in banana leaves; and murgh joshila, moist poussin and chicken thighs cooked to perfection on the tandoor. Indian-themed cocktails and interesting wines are a further plus, as are the riverside views.