Kinaara, meaning “on the shore of” or “on the edge of a riverbank” in Urdu/Hindi, is the Indian fine-dining gem nestled within the 5-star InterContinental hotel in London’s North Greenwich. This restaurant, led by the acclaimed Chef Imamuddin Khan, promises an exceptional culinary experience, and our review will delve into the captivating flavors and elegant atmosphere that await.
A Chef with a Culinary Legacy
Chef Imamuddin Khan boasts a remarkable career, having honed his skills at prestigious restaurants like the Radisson in New Delhi, the Taj Hotel, and The Cinnamon Soho in London. He has even co-authored the best-selling culinary book “The Curry – Classic and Contemporary” with renowned Indian Chef Vivek Singh of the Cinnamon Collective. This shared heritage with the highly regarded Royal Shezan (rated 4.5/5) further fueled our expectations for Kinaara.
A Restaurant with Panoramic Views and Opulent Ambiance
Kinaara’s location on the second floor offers breathtaking panoramic views of Canary Wharf across the River Thames. The restaurant’s spacious interior, adorned with a sumptuous gold and purple color scheme, creates an atmosphere of refined elegance. The private dining room, capable of accommodating 24 guests, provides a secluded setting for intimate gatherings.
A Culinary Symphony of Flavors and Textures
Our journey through Kinaara’s menu began with a delightful amuse-bouche, a delicately spiced masala bread sprinkled with mustard seeds that packed a surprising punch. The Kadak Kekda Amritsari offered a medley of textures and flavors, with a surprisingly strong kick from the spicy tomato chutney and the colorful medley of the capers salsa adding subtle sweetness.
The Saffron Malai Tikka, with its succulent chicken breast infused with the unmistakable aroma of saffron and the subtle sweetness of cardamom cream cheese, set a high benchmark for the evening. The Anaardana Chaat showcased a classic combination of yogurt, tamarind, and spices, while the Lamb Barrah presented exquisitely executed, French-trimmed lamb chops with a smoky edge courtesy of the tandoor.
The Malabar Meen was a masterpiece of subtle brilliance, with a gently spiced and sweet curry that allowed the tender Halibut to shine. The Dum Pukht Chicken Biryani, a fragrant and flavorful dish prepared with genuine love and attention to detail, offered a delightful combination of succulent chicken and long-grained rice, all enveloped in a masala spice that never overpowered the mild flavors.
The Butter Chicken was a testament to the chef’s mastery of balancing flavors, with a perfect harmony of tomato, cardamom, and lingering heat. The Dal Makhani, deeply rich and complex, boasted an unmistakable smoky edge from the butter used in its preparation. The Heeng Jeera Aloo delighted with a lightly sour pickle spice dancing on the palate, while the Dhanak Kulfi Indian Ice Cream, recommended by Chef Imamuddin, offered a trio of silken quenelles of caramel, pistachio, and beetle spice.
A Playful Dessert for a Memorable Finish
The dessert selection was a delightful conclusion to our culinary journey. The Gulab Jamun with rose crumble and the Vanilla Ice Cream with pistachio crumble showcased a playful mix of textures and flavors, leaving a lasting impression of sweetness and satisfaction.
A Must-Visit for Indian Food Enthusiasts
Kinaara, with its stunning views, elegant ambiance, and exceptional cuisine, is a true gem in the world of Indian fine dining. Chef Imamuddin Khan’s culinary expertise shines through in each dish, creating a symphony of flavors and textures that will leave you wanting more.
