Rohit Ghai’s Kutir offers a refined take on Indian game and seafood, served in a picturesque Chelsea dining room. Housed in a quietly elegant townhouse, it delivers polished, punchy plates with charm and intention.
The Ambience
Ring the bell to enter Kutir and discover a verdant interior behind its unassuming Chelsea façade; deep greens, soft golds, and crisp white linens create a sense of timeless calm. It’s intimate without being cramped, the sort of space where conversations feel private and moments feel special. The newly opened spring terrace, with its lush foliage and dappled sunlight, is a welcome addition, perfect for drawn-out lunches and al fresco dinners.
The Food
The menu is built around Ghai’s signature style—bold Indian flavours, delicate textures, and an emphasis on game.
We begin with the prawn masala: texturally excellent, the crustaceans have a satisfying crunch, but the dish would benefit from a sharper note of acidity to lift the flavours. More impressive is the duck and cranberry sheek kebab, a highlight of the evening. The duck mince is smooth and meltingly tender, with a lovely interplay between the sweetness of cranberry and the tingle of green Sichuan pepper.
A lobster pilluchatu arrives next, bursting with South Indian flavours. Curry leaves and toasted spices dance across the soft, sweet meat of the lobster, which is nestled atop a piece of brioche, slick with butter. It is richly satisfying and well-balanced. Less convincing is the truffle quail naan, which veers a touch too eggy, distracting from the delicacy of the quail. A gentle rebalancing might allow the game to sing. Similarly, the green peppercorn venison has promise but is let down slightly by a heavy hand with the salt. The Chettinad goat carries more depth; bold, black-peppery warmth from the masalas, and tender meat that soaks up every bit of spice. Dessert comes in the form of a varied platter—silken, subtle and designed to soothe rather than dazzle. It does its job beautifully. A well-chosen white wine, floral and lightly chilled, plays well with the spices throughout the meal.
The Verdict
Kutir impresses with its graceful service, romantic setting, and bold Indian flavours. Not every dish hits the same high, but the overall experience feels curated and deeply thoughtful—an ideal spot for a special occasion or a date with real potential.
The Details
Address: 10 Lincoln St, Chelsea, London SW3 2TS
Phone: 020 7581 1144
Website: www.kutir.co.uk
Terrace: Open for spring and summer
Cuisine: Indian, with a focus on game and seafood
Dress Code: Smart casual