There’s a new Indian restaurant coming to America and, unlike most, it’s not a local “mom & pop” operation. Tamarind of London aims to be the P.F. Chang’s of Indian food.
The original Tamarind, located in London, is one of the few Indian restaurants in the United Kingdom that has earned a Michelin star. This London fine dining restaurant will, in its trip overseas, transform into an upscale-casual establishment before opening at Crystal Cove Promenade in Newport Beach, CA.
Indian Restaurant Chain for the U.S.
Newport Beach won’t be Tamarind of London’s only location, however. Several more locations are currently being planned. The operators’ hopes are to make Indian food more widespread and accessible to the more mainstream dining crowd. The 4,500 square-foot restaurant will feature 144 floor seats in addition to a bar and patio.
Tamarind of London isn’t the first European chain to land on this side of the pond. Its cousins include: The Obika Mozzarella bar from Italy; Vapiano, an Italian-style fast-casual chain from Germany; and the Wagamama pan-Asian noodle restaurant chain from the UK.
What Kind of Indian Food Will Tamarind of London Serve?
Tamarind’s focus will be on the Northwestern Moghul cooking style, which often uses tandoor ovens. The head chef of the American operation is Sachi Mehra, formerly of Tabla New York. She has recently been spending time in London with Alfred Prasad, chef of the London location, as they develop the menu for the United States.
Since the restaurant will be located on the coast of California, the restaurant will likely have a large offering of seafood dishes. The menu will also feature spices and flavors tailored to a wider American audience.
Tamarind’s of London will try to break into the more mainstream dining market with items like a curry sampler and a burger made with naan bread. The average dinner check at the upscale-casual restaurant is expected to be around $33.
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