Michelin starred chef Rohit Ghai to open new Vatavaran restaurant

Michelin-starred chef Rohit Ghai, together with his business partner Abhi Sangwan, are set to open their new Indian dining destination, Vatavaran, on Beauchamp Place on 7 November 2024.

The new opening will join the duo’s restaurant portfolio which includes Kutir in Chelsea and Manthan in Mayfair.

Ghai’s culinary influence spans internationally, with acclaimed projects such as Rivayat in Marrakech, Aangan in Muscat’s Shangri-La Al Husn, and Iksha Ikska in Doha. His leadership at London’s Gymkhana also cemented his reputation as a “master of modern Indian cuisine”.

Vatavaran, meaning “atmosphere,” in Sanskrit, draws its inspiration from the “serene” landscapes of the Himalayas.

The four-floored restaurant is designed as a “sanctuary for the senses”, with each level symbolising a “unique” element of the Himalayan landscape.

At the summit of this experience lies Shikhar, an intimate cocktail bar. Named after the Sanskrit word for “mountain peak”, Shikhar will boast a cocktail menu crafted by Sangwan himself, paying homage to the spices found in the Indian mountains.

Inspired by the tea estates nestled across the landscape, the menu also features herbs like juniper and saffron.

Ghai and Sangwan said: “Set to be a sanctuary for the senses – this multisensory dining experience is designed to immerse guests in the essence of these majestic mountains. The restaurant’s four elevated levels each symbolise a unique element of the Himalayan landscape, providing a journey for the senses that is both artistic and culinary. From live entertainment, and individually styled levels, guests can expect an immersive day to night experience, encapsulating the true meaning of Vatavaran.”