Review of Chook Chook in Putney

India has long been synonymous with luxury, boasting a rich tapestry of vibrant flavours and exotic spices that lie at the heart of its culinary heritage. Our quest for an authentic Indian dining experience led us to Chook Chook: Indian Railway Kitchen in Putney—a charming establishment that masterfully captures the romance of Indian train travel while exuding an ambience of bygone opulence and elegance.

The restaurant’s extensive menu presents an array of traditional Indian dishes, offering many choices that cater to diverse palates. On the recommendation of our attentive waiter, we opted for the house specialities, accompanied by refreshingly chilled water served in classic metal tumblers and a carefully selected red wine to enhance the bold flavours of our meal.

Our culinary experience commenced with light and crispy popadoms, complemented by authentic sweet mango chutney and tangy yoghurt dip. This was followed by Dahi Sevpuri—delicate, airy puris filled with spiced potatoes and adorned with yoghurt and chutneys. This exquisite appetizer delivered a delightful explosion of flavours, perfectly balanced and enticingly spiced, setting the stage for the courses to follow.

The main course presented an extraordinary feast of flavours. We indulged in Railway Curry, the restaurant’s signature dish, which featured exquisitely tender meat enveloped in a rich, aromatic sauce—a tribute to the traditional fare once served on Indian railway journeys. Alongside this, the garlic and chilli prawns delivered a delicious contrast of sweet and tangy flavours, making it one of the standout dishes of the evening.

Another highlight was the Black Dal, a velvety, deeply spiced lentil dish that harmonised beautifully with the succulent lamb chops and the house-special Lamb Curry. To complement these robust flavours, we opted for a simple yet perfectly cooked serving of fluffy basmati rice, ensuring that the intricacies of the dishes remained the focal point.

For dessert, we indulged in luscious, creamy coconut kheer alongside a delightful pistachio kulfi—a sweet, refreshing conclusion to an indulgent evening.

Beyond the exceptional cuisine, what truly sets Chook Chook apart was its inviting ambience, warm hospitality, and meticulous, authentic presentation. This hidden gem of a neighbourhood restaurant offers home delivery for when you want a cosy night in, as well as private dining for parties.

I would highly recommend a visit, as the interior takes diners on an authentic and immersive journey, elevating the traditional curry night to new heights! With its impeccable execution of rich Indian flavours, Chook Chook has the potential to become a sought-after destination for lovers of fine Indian cuisine.

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Written by Claire Bloom

Photography courtesey of Chook Chook