A Chic Culinary Haven In South West London
Raaz delivers an extraordinary experience with Chef Imran Mansuri’s refined yet soulful Indian cuisine, combining heritage-inspired flavours with contemporary finesse in an elegant and welcoming setting, redefining Putney’s dining scene.
BY GEORGE SHAW
In the bustling heart of South West London’s Putney, Raaz has emerged as a hidden gem that doesn’t remain hidden for long. With a mix of heritage, modern flair, and perfectly curated Indian fine dining, Chef Imran Mansuri has crafted an exceptional dining experience. Known for his time at Michelin-starred Benares, Jamavar, and prestigious venues like Tamarind and Annabel’s, Mansouri’s move to Raaz brings with it a finesse that elevates dining in Putney to a new level.
The Ambiance
Raaz, meaning “secret” in Hindi, is an understated masterpiece of design. Rich walnut panelling, touches of floral wallpaper, and warm gold accents set the tone for a dining experience both chic and welcoming. While alfresco seating out front echoes London’s seasonal charm, it’s the glass-roofed dining room at the back, drenched in candlelight during evenings, that steals the show. A cozy six-seat nook tucked away truly nods to the meaning of its name, offering a discrete dining option for those preferring exclusivity.
The Cuisine
The menu, though compact, bursts with enticing choices inspired by Mansouri’s homeland and his career in elite dining. Starting with the Wild Garlic Chicken Chop, it showcased tender, perfectly cooked thigh paired with chargrilled broccoli. The Grilled Tiger Prawn, infused with South Indian spices and presented with a vibrant mango salad, was a dazzling entrée, albeit generously portioned like a main.
The journey through the flavours of India continued with the mains. The Malabar Fish Curry, embodying Keralan flair, revealed complexity in every bite, its nuanced layers enveloping the tender Sea Bass fillet. But it was the Beef Ribs Bihari that captured the essence of Raaz’s culinary ingenuity. Transformed from traditional recipes, the ribs fell off the bone into a marrow-rich sauce infused with nihari spices—a testament to slow cooking perfected overnight with yoghurt-based marinades and hints of chilli.
The accompanying South African Hartenberg Riesling danced harmoniously with each dish’s subtle, sophisticated spicing, elevating the dining experience to a tier reminiscent of fine establishments in Mayfair, but without the steep price.
The Sweet Finale
If the mains were remarkable, the desserts were indulgent masterpieces. A decadent Chocolate Delice with coconut undertones was accompanied by an ethereal Mango Kulfi dusted with cardamom powder, leaving diners with a sweet memory worthy of a repeat visit.
Verdict
Raaz has brought a culinary revolution to Putney. Combining the precision of refined cooking with the soul of authentic Indian flavours, the restaurant bridges the gap between traditional comfort foods and contemporary masterpieces. From the warm ambiance to meticulously curated dishes, this is a venture that promises to redefine casual fine dining in the district. Chef Mansouri’s Raaz may mean secret, but it is one that South West London won’t dare to keep.