A review of the Winter Game tasting menu at Babur

Tucked away in South London, Babur is a name synonymous with high quality Indian cuisine, blending tradition with innovation in delightful ways. This family run restaurant, established in 1985, is well known and recognised for exceptional food and a warm, inviting atmosphere. The décor of Babur is elegant yet warm, with exposed bricks and featuring a burnt orange and red colour scheme complemented by dark woods, which creates a cozy, intimate atmosphere. 

I had the pleasure of experiencing their exclusive Winter Game Tasting Menu, a special offering designed to showcase the best seasonal ingredients with Babur’s signature flair.  

From the moment I entered, the meticulous service was evident, with each member of the team fully explaining the menu along with the carefully selected wine pairings. I started with poppadoms accompanied by several tangy chutneys,  and was pleasantly surprised by a complementary appetiser which was delicious and set the tone for a truly enjoyable evening. 

The first dish was the Smoked Mallard Duck Salad. The rich, gamey flavour of the duck was perfectly balanced by the sweetness of an apple chutney and three bean salad. Next, the Kasundi Rabbit Tikka arrived, slightly charred on the outside yet tender and succulent within. The smokiness from the grill paired beautifully with the corn salsa.

The Pheasant Tikka Pie was a standout – a stunning dish that showcased the versatility of pheasant. The mixed pheasant meat, topped with crumbly pastry, sat on a bed of mushy peas, which provided a smooth contrast to the slight crispness of the pastry and the gamey richness of the meat.

Next the Tandoori Venison was a comforting, warm dish, reminiscent of a rich, slow-cooked stew.

The venison chop was tender and full of flavour. The Indian style butternut squash pudding finished the evening perfectly. Throughout the meal, the wine pairings were spot on, enhancing the flavours of the meats and bringing out the best in each course. From crisp white to robust red each was chosen with care.  

Babur continues to shine  in terms of the innovative dishes and also through its dedication to maintaining its high standards. They have also just launched their Christmas tasting menu so definitely worth adding to your go to list. I for one will definitely be returning to explore what other creative offerings they have in store.

Address: 119 Brockley Rise, London, SE23 1JP

Website: www.babur.info

Written by Lorna Bryn

Photography courtesy of Babur