The long-awaited launch of Mathura, the latest and most glamorous restaurant from Chef Atul Kochhar and restaurateur Tina English, is drawing nearer, with the opening scheduled 20 October.
Housed in the historic landmark of Westminster Fire Station which was built in 1906, the Grade II-listed station was designed in the Free English Baroque-style, and many of the original features including the original tiles and firemen’s pole have been retained.
Guests enter Mathura through The Fire Station's original carriage doors, opening to reveal a rich yet contemporary interior which reflects the design influences of the Indian city of Mathura - the capital of King Kanishka‘s ancient kingdom.
In a unique fine dining concept, the abundant dishes connect the cultures and glorious flavours of India and nine* of its surrounding countries, including China, Nepal and Sri Lanka, creating new flavours and a connectedness that is at the heart of this stunning restaurant and bar.
Kochhar said that Mathura is his most ambitious restaurant yet, “We are not just creating a menu which pays homage to all the fantastic culinary traditions throughout Asia, we are taking a fresh look at the very best that each country has to offer and coming up with a new take on Indian cuisine.
“It’s my love story to all the wonderful food I have eaten on my travels, re-interpreted by me and my team to create a truly innovative dining experience in one of the most gorgeous settings you’ll find in London.”
Executive Chef Shishir Sinha has worked with Kochhar to create a stunning gastronomic experience that will take diners on a unique culinary journey, with charming and personable staff offering superb service.
Set over two floors, Mathura has a spacious dining area for 60 people with an open kitchen; a destination bar; two private dining rooms, and a Chef’s Table. The sense of theatre is strong, with the skilled serving team wheeling out the trolleys for special dishes and flaming the flambés.
The space is very flexible and can be opened to accommodate large private events too. The spectacular King Kanishka’s State Room is a private dining room seating up to 22 people, and has an exclusive 12 course tasting menu, an experience in its own right.
Private dining is also available in the more intimate Watch Room – one of only two watch rooms remaining in the UK, which retains the original features of the historic building.
A watch room is a continuously attended room in a fire station in which alarms are received, and this is where Winston Churchill himself once rang the fire-bell. A unique cocktail has been created by Executive Barman Nick Smith, only served in this room, which has been named ‘The Churchill’.
Diners can also book the Chef’s Table (numbered 888, signifying great fortune) overlooking kitchen for the ultimate in theatrical dining – seating eight you can dine a la carte or enjoy a wonderful tasting menu.
For a drink in the bar, guests can book table 1906 – commemorating the opening year of the Fire Station – which is next to the original fireman’s pole.