Gymkhana is Reopening this February

Michelin-starred Indian restaurant Gymkhana will reopen its doors this month following a temporary closure caused by a fire last year.

The much-loved spot on Albermarle Street has been out of action since early June 2019, when a blaze broke out inside the restaurant. Reports at the time said half the downstairs area had suffered damage and the ventilation system had been destroyed – though thankfully, no-one was injured.

On 18 February the restaurant will re-open following a refurbishment, spearheaded by Samuel Hosker from JKS Restaurants. While the design of the ground floor will remain similar – with its Edwardian-inspired banquettes, cut glass wall lamps and fans hung from the ceilings – the basement has been re-modelled. We’re told to expect ‘a convivial club lounge feel with hues of peach, Kashmiri chili red and contrasting graphic Indian carpeting surrounded by a showcase of artwork from India.’ Elements of north-Indian architecture, meanwhile, are seen in the bespoke seating, which champions the classic ‘Chandigarh chair’ designed by Pierre Jeanneret. All this is set to create a ‘young and vivacious ambience.’

Food-wise, diners can expect the same contemporary, boldly spiced dishes that earned Gymkhana its Michelin star back in 2014: think high-quality curries, biriyanis and kebabs, with a focus on game meat. Regulars will notice a few new dishes on the menu though, including Multani Baby Raan, Keralan Toddy Shaapu Wild Tiger Prawns, and Game Bird Baida Roti. There’s also a new cocktail menu, which features concoctions including the Peach Blow Fizz, made with green mango and tropical citrus flavours, Tanqueray gin, frozen yoghurt, egg white and soda. Gin aficionados, meanwhile, will love the new pink G&T list.

A project from the team behind Trishna, Brigadiers and Hoppers, Gymkhana was inspired by the social clubs of India, where high society types meet to dine, drink and socialise. The refurbished restaurant is now open for bookings.

The Best Indian Restaurants in London / Mayfair Restaurant Guide