4 /5 Green Sea Shells: We had an excellent dinner at Quilon, near St. James’s Park. Service was warm, attentive, and polished throughout, which made the evening feel special.
We started with cocktails — I chose the Last Sting (watermelon, Reposado tequila, jalapeño), a small but flavorful mix with just the right kick, while my husband had the Maple Oak (bourbon, maple syrup, bitters, smoky orange zest), a refined twist on a classic. They also served a complimentary warm glass of rasam, tangy and spiced, which set the tone beautifully.
For food, we had the Chickpeas Masala (Malabar-style), Okra Pearl Onion Masala, Malabar Parathas, and a dry vegetable of asparagus, mange tout, and tenderstem purple broccoli. The asparagus dish felt slightly out of place alongside the other plates since it didn’t reflect Malabari flavors, but it was beautifully prepared and delicate. The other dishes carried the hallmarks of South-West coastal Indian cooking — curry leaves, coconut, and mustard seed — presented with finesse. Portions were on the smaller side, but balanced and satisfying.
Quilon has held a Michelin star since 2008, and it’s easy to see why. The food is distinctive, the drinks are thoughtful, and the service makes you feel looked after even on a busy night. A fantastic experience all around.
