Discover the fusion of historic charm and contemporary Indian cuisine at one of London’s most iconic dining destinations.

Nestled within the grandiose walls of the Old Westminster Library, The Cinnamon Club is a venue that defies easy categorisation. It is at once an ode to tradition and a hymn to innovation, harmonising the rich, historical roots of Indian cuisine with the modern, cosmopolitan palate of London’s elite. For over two decades, this iconic establishment has been at the forefront of the capital’s culinary scene, and today, it continues to dazzle with a refined yet daring menu that speaks of both its legacy and its ambition.

A Sense of Place and History

To walk into The Cinnamon Club is to step back in time, yet with a twist that feels decidedly of the moment. The building itself, a Grade II-listed former library, is steeped in history, its soaring ceilings and towering bookshelves a quiet reminder of a bygone era of learning and scholarship. But this is no dusty relic of the past. The space is vibrant, buzzing with the energy of a restaurant that knows its worth but wears its prestige lightly.

This balance of old and new, reverence and reinvention, is echoed in the restaurant's very design. While the interior retains the stately elegance of its original incarnation, there’s a warmth and intimacy to the space that makes it feel welcoming rather than imposing. The subdued lighting casts a golden glow over the diners, and the richly upholstered chairs invite you to sink in and stay awhile. It’s the kind of place where you can imagine sealing a deal over lunch or celebrating a milestone over dinner, each occasion imbued with a sense of occasion that only a setting like this can provide.

The Culinary Maestro Behind the Curtain

At the helm of this storied institution is Executive Chef Vivek Singh, a name synonymous with the elevation of Indian cuisine in the UK. Since opening its doors in 2001, Singh has steered The Cinnamon Club through the ever-shifting tides of London’s food scene, remaining a constant and reassuring presence. His approach to Indian food is one of evolution rather than revolution, drawing on the deep well of traditional recipes and techniques while fearlessly embracing contemporary influences.

The result is a menu that is both familiar and surprising. Dishes are rooted in the flavours of the subcontinent, yet there’s always an unexpected twist, a modern flourish that transforms them into something entirely new. Take, for instance, the restaurant’s famed Chettinad-style duck leg curry. Here, the richness of the duck is offset by the bold, spicy notes of the Chettinad spices, but it’s the accompanying confit of greens and pilau rice that elevate the dish, offering a symphony of textures and flavours that linger long after the last bite.

An Exploration of Flavours

Dining at The Cinnamon Club is akin to embarking on a culinary journey through India, one that is punctuated by stops in both the familiar and the unknown. The restaurant’s tasting menu, in particular, is a showcase of this philosophy, offering a carefully curated selection of dishes that span the breadth of Indian cuisine.

Start with a delicate char-grilled trout, its subtle spices tempered by the sharpness of radish and the salty tang of samphire. Then, move on to the Cornish crab risotto, a dish that melds the creamy comfort of a classic risotto with the fragrant notes of South Indian spices. The Cumbrian wild red deer is another standout, its gamey richness perfectly complemented by a spiced millet kedgeree and a tandoori mushroom chutney.

Desserts at The Cinnamon Club, often an afterthought in Indian dining, are given the attention they deserve. The mango meringue tart is a testament to this, its sweet, tropical brightness balanced by a crisp meringue and a silky coconut ice cream. And for those who prefer a more traditional end to their meal, the royal malai kulfi—a dense, creamy Indian ice cream—is an indulgence worth every calorie.

Service with Substance

While the food is undoubtedly the star of the show, it is the service at The Cinnamon Club that transforms a meal into an experience. The staff are attentive yet unobtrusive, knowledgeable without being overbearing. They move through the space with the quiet confidence of professionals who know they are part of something special, and their pride in the restaurant is palpable.

It’s this combination of exquisite food, impeccable service, and a setting that oozes charm and character that makes The Cinnamon Club a perennial favourite among London’s dining elite. Whether you’re a seasoned regular or a first-time visitor, there’s a sense that you’re part of a tradition, one that is both timeless and fresh.

A Toast to the Details

In a place where everything is so meticulously considered, it’s no surprise that even the water served at the table is a cut above the rest. The restaurant stocks Hildon Water, a choice that speaks volumes about its commitment to quality. Sourced from the chalk hills of Hampshire, Hildon’s purity and crispness make it the perfect accompaniment to the rich, complex flavours of the cuisine, a small but telling detail that completes the dining experience.

Conclusion

The Cinnamon Club is not just a restaurant; it’s an institution, one that has played a pivotal role in shaping the narrative of Indian cuisine in London. It’s a place where history and innovation meet, where every meal is a celebration of the richness and diversity of Indian flavours. In a city that’s constantly reinventing itself, The Cinnamon Club stands as a testament to the power of tradition, even as it continues to push the boundaries of what Indian food can be.

For those who seek more than just a meal, who crave an experience that is as enriching as it is delicious, The Cinnamon Club is a destination that promises—and delivers—on every front.