Nestled within the charming enclave of Hampstead lies a culinary gem that promises an unforgettable dining experience: Bonoo Indian Tapas Restaurant. Envisioned as a haven for gastronomic adventurers, this establishment beckons with a warmth that transcends its threshold, captivating from the moment you step foot inside.
Upon arrival, I was greeted with an embrace of hospitality that resonates throughout the establishment, setting the tone for an evening of indulgence. At the helm of this oasis of culinary delight stands Mani, the consummate manager whose affable demeanor and attention to detail elevate the dining experience to unparalleled heights. With a keen eye for ensuring every guest feels valued, Mani orchestrates a symphony of service that leaves an indelible mark on patrons.
As I settled into my seat I was enveloped in an ambiance that seamlessly fuses modern elegance with traditional charm. The air is alive with the tantalizing aroma of spices, hinting at the culinary treasures that await.
The menu, a testament to the rich tapestry of Indian cuisine, offers an array of tantalizing delights designed to tantalize the palate and ignite the senses. Among the standout dishes, the Aloo Firecracker and Gobi Manchurian emerge as undisputed favorites, their bold flavors and expertly crafted textures leaving diners craving more. For those seeking a culinary journey steeped in tradition, the Railway Lamb Curry beckons with its rich, complex flavors, a testament to the time-honored techniques employed in its preparation. Slow-cooked for three hours to perfection, this dish stands as a beacon of culinary mastery, a testament to the restaurant’s commitment to excellence.
Complementing the culinary offerings are an array of expertly crafted cocktails, each imbued with a unique blend of flavors that serve as the perfect accompaniment to the meal. From classic favorites to innovative creations, the bar delights discerning palates with its artful concoctions, inviting guests to embark on a journey of libationary discovery.
No meal at Bonoo Indian Tapas Restaurant would be complete without indulging in the delights of traditional desserts, each a decadent finale to an evening of culinary splendor. From the velvety smoothness of Gulab Jamun to the delicate crunch of Jalebi, these sweet sensations offer a fitting conclusion to a memorable dining experience.
As I bid farewell to Bonoo Indian Tapas Restaurant, I do so with heart full and palates satiated, knowing that I have experienced not just a meal, but a culinary odyssey. With free parking available after 5:30 pm, the only regret one may have is not having discovered this culinary...
Read moreInteresting looking place, quite warm they still working out how to use the HVAC system. Digital menu's via QR on your phones, although it says you can order directly from your device the waiters/waitresses take your order. Kind and helpful staff. Food was good, some dishes better than others but mainly bland. I can only vouch for the vegetarian dishes, nearly ordered the whole menu as the portions are tapas style which is great. Most dishes lacked flavour, where some had a punch. From memory pani puri water can be improved drastically. Truffle naan was supurb, chilli paneer sticky onion flavour with excessive oil which messed up my pallete. They still trying to work out spices and how to balance them. I'm only saying this because you are paying premium for each dish/drinks. Now drinks... We ordered water but the taste put us off as it tasted like they scooped it up from the dish drainer. We had mocktails and wow what a shocker. Diluted rubicon as the base? We all had different flavours. Chopped fruit and whole load of mint leaves thrown in. Accurately described by the person sitting next to me... Dish water and fruit. The mint wasn't even muddled so no flavour came through. So anyway it's a shame as this place was highly recommended to us but unfortunately maybe because we went without alcohol and vegetarian. They kindly offered either a baileys/whiskey shot or mint tea on the house. Again majority of us opted for the mint tea. The alcohol was great as he assumed the mint tea would be a disappointment and he was right. Same strange flavour to the water and no taste of mint as it wasn't crushed. Couldn't finish them and felt bad for wasting fresh mint leaves. So I'm being generous with 3 stars as they can put more effort in the mocktails and get some more flavour...
Read moreThis Indian tapas restaurant offers a unique twist on traditional Indian cuisine, combining bold, familiar flavors with the small-plate concept. The menu is packed with creative options that allow you to sample a wide variety of dishes without committing to just one. Whether you're in the mood for street food-style bites like pani puri or more substantial options like lamb kebabs, there's something for every palate.
The standouts for me were the lamb kofta and the crispy onion bhajis, both bursting with flavor and perfectly spiced. The small plates are ideal for sharing, which adds a fun, communal element to the meal. For vegetarians, the selection is equally impressive, with dishes like aloo tikki and paneer tikka that are rich in taste and texture.
The restaurant's decor strikes a balance between modern chic and Indian heritage, with vibrant colors and warm lighting that make for a cozy, intimate atmosphere. The service is efficient, with staff eager to explain the concept and recommend dishes based on your preferences.
One of the most enjoyable aspects of the tapas format is that you get to try so many different things in one sitting, without the heaviness of a typical multi-course Indian meal. It's an ideal spot for those who love bold, layered flavors and want to explore a contemporary take on Indian cuisine.
Overall, this Indian tapas restaurant delivers a fun, flavorful, and innovative dining experience that's perfect for both casual nights out and more...
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