Celebrate In Style

Michelin-starred cooking, stylish interiors and adaptable spaces for cocktails and private dining

For couples planning pre-wedding dinners, hen parties or intimate celebrations, London offers some brilliant venues that deliver more than just great food. Michelin-starred chef Rohit Ghai and restaurateur Abhishake Sangwan, who run Kutir, Manthan and Vatavaran, have created spaces that perfectly combine authentic Indian flavours with luxurious design.

Kutir, Chelsea
Kutir, named ‘Restaurant of the Year’ at the British Restaurant Awards in 2022, is a hidden gem nestled just off the King’s Road in Chelsea. The interiors, inspired by India’s wildlife, are cosy yet elegant, while Chef Ghai’s modern take on traditional Indian dishes keeps the menu innovative and exciting.

A favourite of Angelina Jolie, Ed Sheeran and Pierce Brosnan, the charming townhouse features two private dining rooms on the top floor. Each room has its own distinct décor, featuring cosy fireplaces and statement chandeliers. The Sariska Room seats 12-14 guests, while the Ranthambore Room accommodates 8-9, or the entire space can be booked for up to 80 guests. In the warmer months, the rooftop terrace garden provides the perfect setting for cocktails or outdoor canapés.
www.kutir.co.uk

Manthan, Mayfair
In the heart of Mayfair, Manthan is a lively and welcoming setting that works perfectly for pre-wedding celebrations. Chef Ghai channels the rich culinary traditions of Delhi, Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh into a menu that balances classic Indian flavours with contemporary techniques. Signature dishes like Ghati Masala Prawns are guaranteed crowd pleasers, especially when paired with inventive cocktails that fuse Indian spices with international flair. Highlights include the Menaka, a smoky and sweet mix of wild hibiscus-infused mezcal, vanilla, bitters and soda. The interiors are equally memorable. Plush jewel-toned seating, dark wood floors, soft ambient lighting and bespoke artwork create a warm and inviting atmosphere. The marble-topped statement bar is a great place to gather for celebratory drinks and the open layout allows for flexible seating arrangements, making it ideal for both intimate dinners and more casual gatherings.
www.manthanmayfair.co.uk

Vatavaran, Knightsbridge
Over in Knightsbridge, Vatavaran is inspired by the majesty of the Himalayas – its name means “atmosphere” in Hindi. The restaurant spans three floors, each offering a different experience. The ground-floor bar and lounge is a great spot for pre-dinner drinks or relaxed India-inspired cocktails.

Upstairs, the first-floor private dining area accommodates up to 50 guests, making it perfect for pre-wedding dinners, cocktail parties or intimate celebrations. Warm lighting and natural textures create a sophisticated atmosphere, lending a sense of calm and luxury to every event. The second floor boasts a more flexible space for smaller gatherings or late-evening celebrations.

The top-floor members’ bar, Shikhar, takes its name from the Sanskrit word for ‘summit’. Designed as a discreet private members’ space. Its contemporary design meets warm, elegant touches, creating a sophisticated spot for socialising or winding down.

Beyond its chic setting, Shikhar functions as a hub for a growing community of like-minded members, including entrepreneurs, creatives and professionals. The calendar is filled with exciting events, from live music evenings and themed dinners to mixology sessions and wine tastings. Members can also book private dining for business meetings, small celebrations or relaxed get-togethers, with bespoke menus created by Vatavaran’s chefs.

At the heart of the experience is the food. Vatavaran’s Sigri cooking involves a traditional open-flame technique that brings the bold, diverse flavours of India to life. Chef Ghai’s signature dishes include Lamb Chop with Kashmiri chilli and black cumin, indulgent Lobster Moilee, Beetroot Chops with cloves and vanilla and Morels & Broccoli in korma truffle. From seafood and slow-cooked meats to vegetarian plates and indulgent desserts, each dish mirrors the restaurant’s commitment to craftsmanship, quality and a dining experience as luxurious as its surroundings.

Vatavaran’s team will work closely with couples to create a bespoke dining experience, from personalised menus crafted by their expert chefs to wine pairings designed to bring out the best in every dish. Whether it’s cocktails on the ground floor, a private dinner upstairs or a full-floor hire, Vatavaran combines style, flexibility and unforgettable Indian cuisine.
www.vatavaran.uk