Stylish Charlotte Street Indian Restaurant, Lokhandwala, has launched Vjay’s Bar & Lounge: a “speakeasy” above its main dining room.
I had a lovely time sampling drinks and nibble at Vijay’s during a recent Fitzrovia foray.
With capacity for 25 along with a small interior courtyard terrace, overlooking the outdoor seating of the restaurant, Vijay’s is ideal for a quiet catch up, a small get together or a hushed rendezvous. Atmosphere was relaxed with elegant furnishings and rather plush seating. I liked sitting at the bar, admiring the handiwork of the bartender and having a looksee at all the bottles, spices and such assembled for the unique concoctions on the cocktails menu.
While there, I enjoyed a couple of cocktails during my visit: the Holi and the Chocolate Potion (both £12). The Holi was a rich mix of Don Julio tequila infused with ginger, Vida mezcal, Mozart white chocolate liqueur, fresh lime and cinnamon syrup. The Chocolate Potion – made with Talisker 10, chocolate elixir, chilli syrup, Angostura Bitters, coconut, and cardamom bitters – reaped even more flavour and with great fiery gusto.
Between drinks I had the chance to sample a few items from the downstairs kitchen. I loved the tikki (“kebab” of almonds, beetroot, goat cheese, potato with cauliflower chaat, £6); the celery prawns (£7) and lamb chops (marinated for 24 hours and cooked in tandoor, £14).
Service was quick and friendly.
Vijay’s Bar & Lounge is located upstairs from Lokhandwala at 93 Charlotte Street, W1T 4PY. Find out more at lokhandwala.co.uk.
