Harden's survey result
Summary
A “great local” by absolutely all accounts, Atul Kochhar's slightly underwhelming-looking operation on a suburban shopping street invariably outperforms its location thanks to some “exceptional quality” food noted for its subtle but vibrant flavours; “great cocktails” also a boon.
Summary
“Not just a neighbourhood gem, but just about the best place for miles and miles around” – Atul Kochhar is a perhaps-unlikely name to be associated with an ordinary-looking venture in a suburban parade of shops in Petts Wood, but which helps explain its “very subtle Indian food with terrific flavours” from a menu that’s “always interesting, with some mainstays that are worth ordering every time”. In other respects, “it’s got that local curry house feel: it’s simply the food (and some nifty wines) which make it a superb standout”.
Summary
“Not just a neighbourhood gem, but just about the best place for miles and miles around” – Atul Kochhar is a perhaps-unlikely name to be associated with an ordinary-looking venture in a suburban parade of shops in Petts Wood, but which helps explain its “very subtle Indian food with terrific flavours” from a menu that’s “always interesting, with some mainstays that are worth ordering every time”. In other respects, “it’s got that local curry house feel: it’s simply the food (and some nifty wines) which make it a superb standout”.
Summary
“I have been to most of the ‘top end’ Indians in London – Jamavar, Benares, Cinnamon Club, Gymkhana and Café Spice Namaste. In ‘darkest’ Petts Wood (surprisingly) this gem of a restaurant sits in an ordinary suburban row of shops with a self-effacing exterior. I have dined there in parties of 4 up to 24 and the standard of food is unvaryingly exemplary.” Atul Kochhar’s surprising suburban venture “shows his flair just as much as Benares did” with “sophisticated” cuisine that’s “amazing… even better considering the location!”
For 31 years we've been curating reviews of the UK's most notable restaurant. In a typical year, diners submit over 50,000 reviews to create the most authoritative restaurant guide in the UK. Each year, the guide is re-written from scratch based on this survey (although for the 2021 edition, reviews are little changed from 2020 as no survey could run for that year).
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Owner's description
Prices
 Drinks |
|
|---|---|
| Wine per bottle | £26.00 |
| Filter Coffee | £2.50 |
 Extras |
|
|---|---|
| Service | 10.00% |
Restaurant details
Indian Essence Restaurant Diner Reviews
"A Sunday lunch time visit and the place was still busy. Food was great with some nice fusion surprises. Particularly liked the steak two ways. Reliably high standard and quality. Really like this place. "
176-178 Petts Wood Rd, Petts Wood, BR5 1LG
Opening hours
| Monday | 12 pm‑2:45 pm, 5:30 pm‑10 pm |
| Tuesday | 12 pm‑2:45 pm, 5:30 pm‑10 pm |
| Wednesday | 12 pm‑2:45 pm, 5:30 pm‑10 pm |
| Thursday | 12 pm‑2:45 pm, 5:30 pm‑10 pm |
| Friday | 12 pm‑2:45 pm, 5:30 pm‑10 pm |
| Saturday | 12 pm‑2:45 pm, 5:30 pm‑10:30 pm |
| Sunday | 12:30 pm‑2:45 pm, 5:30 pm‑9:30 pm |
