Cinnamon Kitchen and Anise Bar, Devonshire Square, London

Helen Forrest Reports…

Vivek Singh and Rohit Chugh’s latest addition to the Cinnamon Club family is the newly opened Cinnamon Kitchen and Anise bar in Devonshire Square (nearest tube: Liverpool Street). The restaurant continues Singh’s tradition of exciting and modern Indian food. One of the main features is an Indian grill and tandoor bar which forms the centrepiece to the dining room. The Anise bar has a friendly and unpretentious atmosphere which is reflected throughout the rest of the establishment.

The decor is full of dark wood, intricate and unusual nature inspired light fittings and clean lines, but the main reason to visit is undoubtably the quality of the food on offer. We were tempted with canapes of cottage cheese on light naan bread, very tender guinea fowl with fresh green thai spices, chicken tikka bites (which had a surprisingly depth of flavour), vegetable cakes and other delights. They even surprised us with desserts with a Indian twist to them; Cardamon and Cumin shortbread with a lemon cream being one delicious example. The waiting staff were very welcoming and attentive and even remembered that my guest was a vegetarian; bringing a few suitable choices over to us first, which was a nice touch.

The bar staff know what they are doing too. We enjoyed spiced cocktails such as a Cinnamon Bellini, Star Anise Martini and a Passionfruit, Chili and Tequila drink.

One could easily imagine returning to Cinnamon Kitchen on the strength of the cuisine we enjoyed and a visit to the Anise bar would also be worthwhile. Although the venue is slightly tucked away (follow the signs to Fitness First and turn left), it is very close to the tube and provides a stylish alternative to the more traditional pubs in the surrounding area.

—
Cinnamon Kitchen and Anise
9 Devonshire Square, London, EC2M 4YL
0207 626 5000
www.cinnamon-kitchen.com