Kingston Upon Thames, is a beautiful part of southwest London which has many things to offer. Apart from the expected stunning views of Thames along the Riverside walk, there is a buzzing high street and an amazing Ancient Market. Home to Kingston University, this Royal borough is also home to some great educational institutions and also has its own arts venue – Rose Theatre.
Naturally, with so much happening in and around Kingston, the food scene is very exciting. From a very busy food market and most popular chains, there is also a fair spattering of local cafes and restaurants.
Food Scene at Kingston
The Riverside Walk though has fabulous views of the Thames and great outdoor seating. Chakra in Kingston occupies one of the best spots along the river, where you can spend hours enjoying an indulgent Indian meal, while watching ducks and swans bobbing around on the water, seemingly undisturbed by the occasional riverboat or enthusiastic university students practicing their rowing skills.
I have in the past written about a grand five-course meal that I enjoyed at Chakra at Kensington which you can read here. So naturally, when I was invited to review their brand new menu at Kingston, I was excited and expected a feast 🙂
Am glad to report that I was not disappointed. On a beautiful sunny afternoon a few months ago, Heidi and I enjoyed a delicious spread at Chakra in Kingston.
We picked the crowd favourite – Mango Lassi, the sweet and thick lassi does hit the spot and sets the mood for all the flavours to follow.
Amuse Bouche
The assorted papads which come with a selection of three very delicious chutneys and dips. I absolutely loved the spicy kick, crunch and texture of the sago popaddum.
Next came the Lucknowi samosa chaat was tangy and sweet with hints of chilli, everything you would expect in a good chaat dish.
For starters, we enjoyed the fabulous Tandoor selection of meat and veg. Succulent and smoky Hariyali Chikka Tikka, melt-in-the-mouth delicious Peshawari Lamb chops, extremely moreish Golden king prawn, a really soft Paneer Tikka, gorgeous Tandoori Gobi ( aka the humble cauliflower – so good – I would choose it over the meat – yes honestly!) and perfectly done stuffed peppers aka Bharwa Mirchi ( made me wonder what the secret spice mix that was used to stuff the juicy peppers)
The mains arrived on a huge tray heaving under the weight of all the food. The Good ole butter chicken is just that – a buttery smooth gravywith yummy soft chicken. To complete the meal we were served a selection of Naans fresh from the tandoor, Chakra House Daal, Saag Aloo, Saffron Rice, and pomegranate raita.
Chakra’s Gourmand Journey
To enjoy a similar spread, simply pick the sharing menu at Chakra, Kingston. Some dishes will vary based on seasonality like the fresh berry cheesecake which is their sweet sensation in the sharing menu (wow!)
Dessert was a grand affair
Dessert was as visually appealing as it was a feast for the palate. The prettiest malai kulfi I have ever had – topped with crushed nuts, dried rose petals, edible flowers and syrup – ummm.
Chakra has a menu that offers everything from the most popular North Indian dishes to tangy street food style dishes, all presented beautifully. An ideal choice to enjoy brunch, lunch or dinner with fabulous views of the Thames and Kingston bridge all year round.
*With thanks to Humayun Hussain and Chakra on Kingston for an invite. All opinions expressed and photographs used are, as always, my own. No monetary compensation was provided for a positive review.
Have a look at what Heidi thought about the spread at Chakra here
It looks like a lovely place to dind st. The selection of food looks amazing .
Love the ambience and location, the menu is lovely too.