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Pioneers of the London Indian restaurant scene MW Eat , has taken its pan-Indian upmarket informal dining restaurant Masala Zone to the heart of London ’ s Piccadilly Circus .
The latest opening from MW Eat - the group behind Masala Zone and finedining classics : Chutney Mary , Amaya and Veeraswamy – is the group ’ s seventh restaurant in London .
Housed in a historic building adjacent to the famous statue of Eros , Masala Zone Piccadilly Circus will be initially open for lunch and dinner ; but will soon also offer afternoon tea followed shortly by breakfast , affording Londoners and visitors to the capital alike an authentic taste of India at any time of the day .
Subtle spicing and profound flavours lie at the heart of Masala Zone ’ s dishes using historic recipes from gourmet homes and generations of India ’ s street food masters . Masala Zone Piccadilly Circus ’ menu will consist of showstopping grazing dishes such as sprouted lentil bhel , vada pao sliders and gourmet grills including Lucknowi lamb biriyani and paneer tikka , alongside regional curries and traditional thalis .
The owners of Masala Zone believe that the interiors of their restaurants should thrill as much as their flavours do . The stunning interior design of the new Piccadilly restaurant exudes inspiration from India at every turn combined with contemporary design , the restaurant ’ s interior hallmark . This ranges from a vibrant colour scheme of deep purples , bold reds and rich greens to the metallic panels housing sculptures and paintings from India .
Luxurious banquettes , adorned in rich furnishings will be dotted around the 150-cover venue with tabletops exhibiting a variety of maximalist patterns . A contemporary take on the traditional Jali screens surround distinct seating areas , punctuating the room . In honour of India ’ s love of luminous displays , showstopping light fixtures will hang from the ceiling . The bar is also set to be a dazzling affair ; its luminous LED bar front a design of red onyx , creating a focal point to the room .
Desserts are no afterthought , with quintessential Indian sweet treats fashioned by the restaurant ’ s ‘ Halwais ’ ( dessert chefs ). Highlights include smooth and flavoursome kulfis and the classic Gujarati shrikhand dessert .
Alongside an array of classic cocktails that have been given a Masala Zone twist , such as chai-infused Negronis and rose and cardamom-infused almond sours , Masala Zone Piccadilly Circus will have a list of wines that flatter the range of spices within the menu , alongside a classic selection of beers .
Photo : Paul Winch-Furness
Issue 59 2023 THE ART OF LUXURY