Our visit to Chor Bizarre in Mayfair was by invitation, and we were totally spoilt. Having the opportunity to try several of the dishes on the rather eclectic menu, which covers feasts like the famous Kashmiri Wazwam, South Indian Tiffin, the quintessential Indian street food Chaat, along with other well known Indian dishes. I am going to have to use the word eclectic a lot as that very much sums up Chor Bizarre. The decor is both stylish and eclectic (and some of it is even for sale). The food is equally eclectic covering several Indian regions, we ordered a fairly mixed range of dishes. Sambar, Gazab ka tikka, a lovely mild dish with very moist chicken marinated in cheese and cream that is also served in Chor Bizarre’s New Delhi branch. Dakshni crab cakes, light and as spicy as advertised, Lamb Rogan Josh, Pepper Scallops, Baghara Baingan and Palak Makkai a rather delicious spinach dish.
The restaurant has an extensive wine list which they are happy to match to your food, something I always struggle with in Indian restaurants. For a useful guide on pairing see Charles Metcalfe’s Chor Bizarre Wine and Food matches. We had a nice bottle of Castillo de Clavijo Rioja Crianza, which only really worked with the milder dishes.
I very much wanted to try their Tandoori pineapple dessert, but alas after our feast I had no room, I just managed to fit in some mango sorbet and a nice glass of dessert wine.
Chor Bizarre which translates as Thieves Market has a nice relaxing buzz to it, on our visit it comfortably handled groups, couples and single dinners.
I have indulged at top London Indian restaurants like Benares and The Cinnamon Club, and dined at numerous less expensive establishments. My favorites include places like Dockmasters House, Cafe Spice Namaste and The Mint Leaf, and now I can happily add Chor Bizarre to that number.
Chor Bizarre is managed by Old World Hospitality. They have several restaurants in London including one of my favorites Tamarai in Drury Lane.
Marks out of 10
Food 6.5
Service 6.5
Ambience 6.3