#FtLionAwards 2023 Newcomer of the Year shortlist

Chef Brinder Narula is evidently a talented cook with plenty of experience having formerly been the Executive Chef at both Michelin-starred Benares and Gymkhana in Mayfair, London.

With a menu inspired by the ingredients of the North Indian regions of Rajasthan, Haryana, Delhi, Punjab, and Uttar Pradesh, Chef Brinder served us some cracking dishes at the recently launched Kachori, which we rated 4.5/5.

Located in the happening-place of London’s Elephant Castle, he has a ‘Best Main’, ‘Best Seafood’, and, believe it or not given that this is an Indian restaurant, ‘Best Burger’, up for consideration.

Indian fine-dining venue Kinaara at 5-star InterContinental hotel opposite Canary Wharf turned out to be FtLion’s first 5/5 rated restaurant of 2023.

Chef Imamuddin Khan has worked at prestigious Indian restaurants Radisson in New Delhi, Taj Hotel and The Cinnamon Soho in London, and co-authored the best-selling culinary book ‘The Curry – Classic and Contemporary’ with Chef Vivek.

It should come as no surprise to learn, therefore, that the Chef has made every category thus far aside from putting up a burger.

‘Asian-fusion’ steakhouse Meet Bros in London’s Paddington have quite the pedigree with well-known steakhouse chain in Malaysia Me’nate Steak Hub behind this venture.

The place itself is picture perfect with one of the best basement conversions we’ve seen that comprises brickwork-arched seating rooms, a huge ornate wooden door featuring in the main dining room, and a stunningly designed VIP area for 25. Rated 4/5, they four contenders with a beverage, starter, dessert, as well as a steak.

Indian high-end restaurant Noir in north east London’s South Woodford is another one headed by the hugely talented Chef Nikhil Mahale, who boasts 20 years’ experience and used to lead the kitchen at renowned Indian bistro Farzi Café in Leicester Square.

Having been rated 4.5/5, the important point is that, aside from putting up a burger, Noir has also made every category thus far.

The man behind Sticky Mango in London’s Tower Bridge, Chef Patron Peter Lloyd, is another decorated cook who has worked under such creative maestros as Pierre Koffmann, Gordon Ramsay, Marco Pierre White and the late Chef Charlie Trotter.

Having served us a starter and dessert, which we’ve shortlisted for these awards, Chef Peter’s Stick Mango was also rated a solid 4.5/5.