• Premium tandoori grilled prawns from the gourmet seafood menu at Essence Kent.
Menus

Atul Kochhar’s Award-Winning Fine Dining with Pan-indian Dishes

A variety of menus feature Atul Kochhar’s award-winning fine dining with pan-Indian dishes discovered by the chef on his extensive travels across the Indian sub-continent, re-interpreted in his inimitable style with modern European flourishes and techniques with dishes suitable for vegans and vegetarians.

  • A La Carte

    APPETISERS

    MAKALI FRY (mo)
    Crispy squid rings with chilli lime dressing, zesty salad
    £12.45
    KARARA KEKDA (cr,e)
    Golden- fried crispy soft shell crab delicately spiced with Kashmiri chilli, apple and corn salad, passion fruit chilli chutney
    £14.95
    TANGRA CHILLI PRAWNS (cr,so,gl)
    Kolkata inspired batter-fried king prawns, peppers, spring onions, chilli garlic sauce
    £15.95
    KHASTA MURG (d,gl)
    Atul’s signature chicken tikka pie with mixed berry compote
    £13.45
    GILAFI LAMB SEEKH KEBAB (d)
    Fine spiced minced lamb coated with peppers, onions, feta cheese skewered in the tandoor
    £14.45
    ANDHRA CHILLI DUCK (d,gl)
    Crispy Gressingham Duck glazed with a fiery Andhra Chilli, roasted garlic and ginger, tempered with curry leaves and green chillies, fresh lime
    £16.95
    MURG TIRANGA (d)
    Lehsuni malai tikka, guntur chicken fry, bhatti ka murg
    £13.95
    TANDOORI RATTAN (d,cr)
    An assortment of signature kebabs: chargrilled king prawn, lamb chop and lehsuni malai tikka
    £21.95
    SUBZ KA KHAZANA (d)
    Rampuri paneer tikka, broccoli malai and tandoori portobello mushrooms, parmesan shavings
    £12.75
    TOKRI CHAAT (d) ⓥ
    Regal street food, straw potato basket, spiced green chickpeas and potato, splash of chutneys, yoghurt foam, Mumbai sev, fresh pomegranate
    £12.95

    MAIN COURSES

    ESSENCE KEBAB PLATTER (d,cr,mu)
    A selection of kebabs: lime scented king prawns, lamb chop, mustard salmon, bhatti ka tikka and lehsuni malai tikka served with a zesty salad
    £27.95
    TANDOORI JHINGA (d,cr)
    Tandoori grilled king prawns marinated with kafir lime, caraway seeds and lemongrass marinade
    £25.95
    SAMUDRI KHAZANA (cr,mo)
    Pan-seared king prawns, sea bass, hand– dived scallops and green mussels, grilled asparagus, idiayyapam, moillie sauce
    £26.95
    MEEN KUDAMPULI
    Pan-seared Kerala-style halibut simmered in a red chilli and spiced gravy, finished with curry leaves and tangy Malabar tamarind.
    £25.95
    VENISON KATCHI MIRCH KA SALAN (d,n)
    Delicately braised venison in a refined Hyderabadi salan of green chilli, roasted sesame, fresh green peppercorns, peanut and coconut, finished with aromatic yoghurt sauce, masala baby potatoes
    £25.95
    STEAK MADRAS (d,mu)
    Chargrilled Angus fillet steak, with beef Madras curry, gunpowder chips
    £29.95
    TANDOORI MURG (d)
    Chargrilled half spring chicken, mace and dried chillies marinade, roast baby potatoes, makhni sauce
    £19.45
    AWADHI NALLI LAMB NIHARI (d,gl)
    Slow-braised lamb shank in an aromatic Nihari gravy, infused with whole spices and ginger, finished with fresh coriander, green chilli and a delicate touch of lime
    £25.95
    JUNGLEE MAAS (mu)
    Tender diced kid goat, slow-cooked in a bold Rajasthani curry of Mathania chillies, garlic and aromatic whole spices, with a rich, fiery finish
    £24.95
    DUM KA MURG (d)
    Saffron-infused chicken supreme, slow-cooked on dum with caramelised onion and aromatic spices
    £19.95
    DILLI KA BUTTER CHICKEN (d)
    Chargrilled boneless chicken tikka cooked in an aromatic tomato-onion sauce tinged with fenugreek – a reminiscent of old Delhi royalty
    £19.95
    SHAHI JACKFRUIT KA KOFTA (d,n)
    Delicate jackfruit kofta in a velvety, aromatic tomato and cashew sauce
    £15.95
    BANARASI GOBI ⓥ
    Roasted cauliflower, delicately spiced with Banarasi aromatics and roasted whole spices
    £16.95

    VEGETABLES

    PANEER KALI MIRCH (d)
    Cottage cheese batons cooked with black pepper, cream and aromatic spices
    £9.95
    SAAG MAKAI (d)
    Creamed spinach with baby corn, tempered with garlic
    £8.95
    CHATPATI ALOO GOBI MUTTAR MASALA ⓥ
    Crisp cauliflower florets, potatoes and peas tossed in a vibrant, tangy masala with aromatic spices
    £8.95
    BHARLI VANGI (n) ⓥ
    Baby aubergines stuffed with aromatic Maharashtrian spices, coconut and roasted peanuts
    £9.95
    DAL MAKHNI (d)
    Speciality of the house
    £8.95
    DAL PANCHAMEL ⓥ
    A melange of five lentils cooked to perfection – A Rajasthani speciality
    £8.95
    ALOO UDAIGIRI ⓥ
    Spiced baby potatoes tossed with aromatic spices, fresh herbs, garam masalas
    £8.45
    PUNJABI CHOLE ⓥ
    Spiced chickpeas and potatoes cooked in an aromatic onion-tomato masala tinged with caraway seeds
    £9.95
    GREEN CHILLI PAKODA ⓥ
    Crisp Dutch green chillies dipped in a delicate spiced gram-flour batter and fried to golden perfection
    £8.45

    RICE AND BREAD

    SADE CHAWAL
    £4.95
    JEERA PULAO
    £5.75
    LEMON RICE ⓥ
    £5.95
    GOSHT KI BIRYANI (d)
    Tender pieces of lamb, cooked with saffron basmati rice, served with salan and raita
    £24.75
    KOLKATA CHICKEN BIRYANI (d,e,gl)
    The famous Kolkata inspired chicken biryani cooked with masala potatoes, spiced boiled egg served with salan and raita
    £22.75
    VEGETABLE BIRYANI (d,gl)
    A melange of vegetables, cottage cheese cooked Awadhi style served with salan and raita
    £19.95
    TANDOOR ROTI (gl) ⓥ
    £4.95
    TANDOORI NAAN (d,e,gl)
    £5.25
    PESHAWARI NAAN (d,e,n,gl)
    £5.95
    LACHHA PARATHA (d,gl)
    £5.95
    KEEMA NAAN (d,gl,e)
    £5.95
    CHEESE NAAN (d,gl,e)
    £5.95
    GARLIC NAAN (d,gl,e)
    £5.95
    BREAD BASKET (d,gl,e,n)
    £14.95
    PINEAPPLE & CUCUMBER RAITA SADA DAHI (d,gl)
    £5.95
    PUNJABI SALAD
    £5.45
    PAPAD
    Assorted papad with three homemade chutneys
    £5.95
    .
    Allergens: (CR)-Crustaceans, (M)- Mussels (D)-Dairy, (E)-Eggs, (GL)-Gluten, (MU)-Mustard, (N)-Nuts, (SO)-Soya, (V)-Vegan, (c)-Celery Despite our best efforts and whilst we have strict controls in place, our food and drink is prepared in areas where cross contamination may occur, and therefore, we are unable to guarantee that our dishes are free from any allergens. Not all ingredients are listed in each dish, please inform your server of any allergies, or dietary requirements. All prices are inclusive of VAT. A discretionary service charge of 12.5% willl be added to your bill
  • Dinner Menu

    2 Courses £32.95
    3 Courses £36.95

    Add a glass of wine or pint of cobra £7
    Sunday: 5.30pm – 9pm, Monday-Wednesday: 5.30pm – 10pm
    Amuse Bouche

    Appetisers (choose one)

    Makali Fry (mo)
    Crispy fried squid with chilli and lime dressing
    Murg Tiranga (d)
    Lehsuni malai tikka, guntur chicken fry, bhatti ka murg
    Tangra Chilli Prawns (cr,so,e,gl)
    Kolkata inspired batter fried king prawns, peppers, spring onions, chilli garlic sauce
    Andhra Chilli Duck (d,gl)
    Crispy Gressingham duck glazed with a fiery Andhra chilli, roasted garlic and ginger, tempered with curry leaves and green chillies, fresh lime
    Gilafi Lamb Seekh Kebab (d)
    Fine spiced minced lamb coated with peppers and onions skewered in the tandoor
    Samosa Chole Chaat (d,gl,v)
    Crispy vegetable parcels, spiced chickpeas, splashed with sweet yoghurt, mint and tamarind chutneys, Mumbai sev
    Additional Nibbles £4.95 each
    Onion Bhajiya (v) | Chicken 65 | Hariyali Chicken Tikka (d)

    Mains (choose one)

    Essence Kebab Platter (d,cr,mu)
    An assortment of lamb chop, lime scented king prawn, lehsuni malai tikka, bhatti ka murg tikka, mustard salmon, apple and corn salad (£8 supplement)
    Amritsari Tandoori Murg (d)
    Chargrilled half a spring chicken, mace and cinnamon marinade, makhni sauce
    Junglee Maas (mu)
    Tender diced kid goat, slow-cooked in a Rajasthani curry of Mathania chillies, garlic and aromatic whole spices, a rich fiery finish
    Samudri Khazana (cr,mo)
    Pan-seared king prawns, sea bass, green mussels, grilled asparagus, idiayyapam, moillie sauce
    Banarasi Gobi
    Roasted cauliflower, delicately spiced with Banarasi aromatics and roasted whole spices
    Main Courses are served with chef’s choice of vegetable and saffron pulao
    Choice of Breads £4.50 each (d,n,e,gl)
    Plain | Garlic | Peshawari Naan |Tandoori Roti | Pudina Paratha

    Dessert (choose one)

    Sticky Date Pudding (d,gl)
    Fresh ginger ice cream, jaggery caramel, candied ginger
    Dark Chocolate Fondant (d,e,so)
    Cocoa nib crunch, orange curd ice cream
    Masala Chai Crème Brûlée (d,e,n)
    Gingerbread crumble, orange and cranberry compote, pistachio praline
    Choice of Ice Cream
    Orange curd (d) | Turmeric and stem ginger (d)
    .
    Allergens: (CR)-Crustaceans, (M)-Mussels (D)-Dairy, (E)-Eggs, (GL)-Gluten, (MU)-Mustard, (N)-Nuts, (SO)-Soya, (V)-Vegan

    Dishes are subject to availability. Please alert our staff if you have any food allergies before you order your food and drink.

    All prices are inclusive of VAT. A discretionary service charge of 12.5% will be added to your bill.
  • Tasting Menus

    TASTING MENU

    £76.95 + Wine Pairing £49.95
    Tokri Chaat (d)
    Regal street food, straw potato basket, spiced green chickpeas and potato, splash of chutneys, yoghurt foam, Mumbai sev and fresh pomegranate
    Karara Kekda (cr,e)
    Golden-fried crispy soft shell crab delicately spiced with Kashmiri chilli, apple and corn salad, passion fruit chilli chutney
    Chapel Down Brut Reserve, Kent, England
    Meen Kudampuli
    Pan-seared Kerala-style halibut simmered in a red chilli and spiced gravy, finished with aromatic curry leaves and tangy malabar tamarind
    Riesling, Scheifer, Steillage, Mosel, Germany
    Exotic Sorbet
    Dum Ka Murg (d)
    Saffron-infused chicken supreme, slow-cooked on dum with caramelised onion and aromatic spices
    Pinot Noir, Wildsong Organic, New Zealand

    Or
    Venison Katchi Mirch Ka Salan (d,n) (£10 Supplement)
    Delicately braised venison in a refined Hyderabadi salan of green chilli, roasted sesame, fresh green peppercorns, peanut and coconut, finished with aromatic yoghurt sauce, masala baby potatoes
    Primitivo di Manduria ‘Talò’, Italy
    Textures of Lamb (d,mu,gl,e)
    Fennel scented lamb chop, junglee gosht, garlic naan
    Rioja Reserva, Monte Real, Spain
    Dessert Platter Chef’s Choice (d)
    Royal Tokaji, Late Harvest, Hungary

    PESCATARIAN TASTING MENU

    £76.95 + Wine Pairing £49.95
    Tokri Chaat (d)
    Regal street food, straw potato basket, spiced green chickpeas and potato, splash of chutneys, yoghurt foam, Mumbai sev and fresh pomegranate
    Karara Kekda (cr,e)
    Golden-fried crispy soft shell crab delicately spiced with Kashmiri chilli, apple and corn salad, passion fruit chilli chutney
    Chapel Down Brut Reserve, Kent, England
    Tangra Chilli Prawns (gl,cr,so,e)
    Kolkata inspired king prawns batter-fried with peppers,spring onions, chilli garlic sauce
    Sancerre Rose, Domaine Les Chaumes, France
    Seasonal Sorbet
    Samudri Khazana (cr,mo)
    Pan-seared king prawns, sea bass, hand–dived scallops and green mussels, grilled asparagus, idiayyapam, moillie sauce and lemon rice
    Albariño, ‘Genio y Figura’, Spain
    Meen Kudampuli (gl)
    Pan-seared Kerala-style halibut simmered in a red chilli and spiced gravy, finished with curry leaves and tangy malabar tamarind served with garlic naan
    Riesling, Scheifer, Steillage, Mosel, Germany
    Dessert Platter Chef’s Choice
    Royal Tokaji, Late Harvest, Hungary

    VEGETARIAN TASTING MENU

    £76.95 + Wine Pairing £49.95
    Tokri Chaat (d)
    Regal street food, straw potato basket, spiced green chickpeas and potato, splash of chutneys, yoghurt foam, Mumbai sev and fresh pomegranate
    Textures of Broccoli and Mushrooms (d)
    Chargrilled pickle spiced portobello mushrooms and broccoli marinated in fresh cream, hung yoghurt, parmesan shavings
    Chapel Down Brut Reserve, Kent, England
    Achari Paneer Tikka Tawa Masala (d,mu)
    Chargrilled cottage cheese batons marinated in pickled spices, served in a rich tomato-onion sauce
    Albariño, ‘Genio y Figura’, Spain
    Seasonal Sorbet
    Benarasi Gobi
    Roasted cauliflower, delicately spiced with Benarasi aromatics and roasted whole spices
    Pinot Noir, Wildsong Organic, New Zealand
    Shahi Jackfruit Ka Kofta (d,n)
    Delicately spiced jackfruit kofta in a velvety aromatic tomato and cashew nut sauce
    Primitivo di Manduria ‘Talò’, Italy
    Chocolate & Orange (d,gl)
    Dark chocolate delice, cocoa nibs, orange ice cream
    Royal Tokaji, Late Harvest, Hungary

    VEGAN TASTING MENU

    £76.95 + Wine Pairing £49.95
    AMUSE BOUCHE
    Chef’s choice
    Tokri Chaat
    Regal street food, straw potato basket, spiced green chickpeas and potato, splash of chutneys, Mumbai sev and fresh pomegranate
    Chapel Down Brut Reserve, Kent, England
    Aloo Tikki Chole Chaat
    Cumin scented potato cake, spiced chickpeas, tamarind chutney, Mumbai sev, pomegranate
    Chardonnay, Kingstone Estate, Australia
    Seasonal Sorbet
    Benarasi Gobi
    Roasted cauliflower, delicately spiced with Benarasi aromatics and roasted whole spices
    Pinot Noir, Wildsong Organic, New Zealand
    Baingan Pepper Fry (mu)
    Baby aubergine, crushed peppercorn, mustard seeds and onion masala
    Primitivo di Manduria ‘Talò’, Italy
    Sticky Toffee Pudding (gl)
    Vegan vanilla ice cream
    Royal Tokaji, Late Harvest, Hungary
    .
    Tasting menu applies to the entire table and cannot be used in conjunction with any other menus

    Dishes are subject to availability. Please alert our staff if you have any food allergies before you order your food and drink.

    All prices are inclusive of VAT. A discretionary service charge of 12.5% will be added to your bill.

    Allergens: (CR)-Crustaceans, (M)-Mussels, (MO-Mollusc, (D)-Dairy, (E)-Eggs, (GL)-Gluten, (MU)-Mustard, (N)-Nuts, (SO)-Soya, (V)-Vegan, (C)-Celery
  • Weekday Lunch Menu

    2 Courses £24 | 3 courses £28
    Monday to Friday 12:00 pm – 2:45 pm

    STARTERS

    Punjabi Samosa Chaat (d,gl) ⓥ
    Crispy vegetable parcels, splash of chutneys, Mumbai Sev, fresh pomegranate
    Makali Fry
    Crispy fried squid with chilli and lime dressing
    Gilafi Lamb Seekh Kebab (d)
    Fine spiced minced lamb coated with peppers, onions, feta cheese crumble skewered in the tandoor
    Khasta Murg (d,gl)
    Atul’s signature chicken tikka pie with mixed berry compote

    Mains

    Dum Ka Murg (d)
    Saffron-infused chicken supreme,slow-cooked on dum with caramelised onion and aromatic spices
    Sri Lankan Lamb Sukka (mu,gl)
    Slow-braised lamb, roasted coconut, curry leaf, black pepper and caramelised onion, served with crisp Malabar paratha
    Fish Moillie (d)
    Pan-seared catch of the day, beetroot-potato mash, moillie sauce
    Shahi Jackfruit Ka Kofta (d,n)
    Delicate jackfruit kofta in a velvety, aromatic tomato and cashew sauce
    Main courses are served with Chef’s choice of vegetables and jeera pulao
    Breads £4.5 Each (d,e,gl) (n)
    Naan • Garlic naan • Tandoori roti • Cheese chives naan • Peshwari naan
    Additional Nibbles £4.5 Each
    Samosa chaat (gl,d) • Onion bhaji (d)

    Desserts

    Sticky Date Pudding (d,gl)
    Fresh ginger ice cream, jaggery caramel, candied ginger
    Pineapple Parfait (d)
    Charred pineapple and honeycomb ice cream
    Rose and Raspberry Bhapa Doi (d,n)
    Pistachio barfi
    .
    Allergens: (CR)-Crustaceans, (M)-Mussels (D)-Dairy, (E)-Eggs, (GL)-Gluten, (MU)-Mustard, (N)-Nuts, (SO)-Soya, (V) Vegan

    Despite our best efforts and whilst we have strict controls in place, our food and drink is prepared in areas where cross contamination may occur, and therefore, we are unable to guarantee that our dishes are free from any allergens. Not all ingredients are listed in each dish, please inform your server of any allergies, or dietary requirements.

    All prices are inclusive of VAT. A discretionary service charge of 12.5% will be added to your bill.
  • Weekend Lunch Menu

    2 Courses £30 | 3 courses £34
    Saturday 12:00 pm – 3:30 pm

    STARTERS

    Tokri Chaat (d) ⓥ
    Regal street food, straw potato basket, spiced green chickpeas and potato, splash of chutneys, yoghurt foam, Mumbai sev, fresh pomegranate
    Tangra Chilli Prawn (cr,so,gl)
    Kolkata inspired batter-fried king prawns, peppers, spring onions, chilli garlic sauce
    Tandoori Rattan (£6 supplement) (cr,d)
    An assortment of tandoori prawn, lamb chop and malai tikka
    Murg Tiranga (gl,d)
    Lehsuni malai tikka, bhatti ka murg and guntur chicken fry
    Gilafi Lamb Seekh Kebab (d)
    Fine spiced minced lamb coated with peppers, onions and feta cheese, skewered in the tandoor
    Andhra Chilli Duck (d,gl)
    Crispy Gressingham duck glazed with a fiery Andhra chilli, roasted garlic and ginger, tempered with curry leaves and green chillies, fresh lime

    Mains

    Samudri Khazana (cr,mu,d)
    Pan-seared king prawns, sea bass, hand–dived scallops and green mussels, grilled asparagus, idiayyapam, moillie sauce
    Tandoori Murg (d)
    Chargrilled half spring chicken, mace and dried chillies marinade, makhni sauce
    Gosht Ki Biryani (d,gl)
    Tender pieces of lamb, cooked with saffron basmati rice, served with salan and raita
    Steak Madras (£9 supplement) (d,mu)
    Chargrilled Angus fillet steak with beef Madras curry, gunpowder chips (£9 supplement)
    Bharwan Courgettes
    Courgettes stuffed with a melange of garden fresh vegetables, Benarasi sauce
    Main courses are served with chef’s choice of vegetable and saffron pulao
    Breads (d,e,gl) | Additional Nibbles £4.50 Each
    Naan • Garlic naan • Tandoori roti • Cheese chives naan • Peshwari naan Samosa chaat (gl,d) • Onion bhaji (d) • Crispy squid (mo)

    Desserts

    Sticky Date Pudding (d,gl)
    Fresh ginger ice cream, jaggery caramel, candied ginger
    Spiced Apple and Plum Crumble (d)
    Cinnamon ice cream
    Chocolate Fondant (d,e,so)
    Orange curd ice cream
    Kulfi falooda (d,n,gl)
    .
    Allergens: (CR)-Crustaceans, (M)-Mussels (D)-Dairy, (E)-Eggs, (GL)-Gluten, (MU)-Mustard, (N)-Nuts, (SO)-Soya, (V)-Vegan Despite our best efforts and whilst we have strict controls in place, our food and drink is prepared in areas where cross contamination may occur, and therefore, we are unable to guarantee that our dishes are free from any allergens. Not all ingredients are listed in each dish, please inform your server of any allergies, or dietary requirements. All prices are inclusive of VAT. A discretionary 12.5% service charge will be added to your bill.
  • Trinity Theatre / Atul Kochhar Event

    Trinity Theatre Invite You To, An Audience With Atul Kochhar

    8th October 2026

    £59.95 pp | Optional Wine Pairing: £35 pp
    6pm: Welcome glass of Prosecco
    6.15pm: Cooking demo by Chef Atul Kochhar with a short Q&A
    7pm: Chef’s 5 Course Tasting Menu
    Apples, Artichoke & Beetroot (d,gl)
    Apple dhokla, achari artichoke, beetroot croquette, feta
    Prawns & Mackerel (cr)
    Grilled Goa prawns xec xec, mackerel rechado, celeriac
    Albariño | Genio y Figura | Val do Salnes | Rías Baixas | Spain
    Norwich Free Range Chicken (mu,d)
    Tamil spiced roasted chicken supreme, butternut and kale squash, kozhambu gravy
    Chardonnay | Les Préludes | Vigneron des Terres Secrètes | Mâcon‑Villages | Burgundy | France
    Scottish Venison (gl,e,d)
    Spiced venison keema pie, carrots, cabbage and rogan gravy
    Malbec | Malbec Reserve | Bodega Séptima Obra | Mendoza | Argentina
    Bread & Butter Pudding (d,e,gl)
    With vanilla ice cream and ginger custard
    Chenin Blanc | Carte d’Or | Domaine Baumard | Coteaux du Layon | Loire Valley | France

    VEGETARIAN MENU

    £59.95 pp | Optional Wine Pairing: £35 pp
    6pm: Welcome glass of Prosecco
    6.15pm: Cooking demo by Chef Atul Kochhar with a short Q&A
    7pm: Chef’s 5 Course Tasting Menu
    Apples, Artichoke & Beetroot (d,gl)
    Apple dhokla, achari artichoke, beetroot croquette, feta
    Paneer (d)
    Xec xec, courgette rechado, celeriac
    Albariño | Genio y Figura | Val do Salnes | Rías Baixas | Spain
    Spiced Aubergine Steaks (mu,d)
    Butternut, kale, squash, kozhambu gravy
    Verdeca | Alice | Puglia | Italy
    Soy & Edamame Pie (gl,e,d)
    Carrots, cabbage, masala gravy
    Pinot Noir | Les Mougettes | IGP Pays d’Oc | France
    Carrot Halwa & Rabari Custard (d,n)
    Furmint, Hárslevelű, Yellow Muscat | Late Harvest | Royal Tokaji | Tokaji | Hungary | 2018
    .
    Allergens: (CR)-Crustaceans, (M)-Mussels (D)-Dairy, (E)-Eggs, (GL)-Gluten, (MU)-Mustard, (N)-Nuts, (SO)-Soya, (V) Vegan
    Dishes are subject to availability. Please alert our staff if you have any food allergies before you order your food and drink.
    All prices are inclusive of VAT. A 12.5% service charge is applied to all drinks consumed, including wine pairing.
  • Stuart Gillies / Atul Kochhar

    Four Hands Dinner
    Chef Atul Kochhar and Stuart Gillies

    Wednesday 21st October 2026

    £76.95 pp | Optional Wine Pairing £49.95 pp
    Snacks
    Quail Egg & Spinach Tarts (d,e,gl)
    Crispy Polenta, Walnut Ketchup (d,n,su)
    Venison Tartare Croustades (gl,so,mu,f,c)
    Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier | Chapel Down Brut | Kent | England
    Tangra Chengri Maachh (cr,so,gl)
    Tempura prawns with sweet-sour-spicy chutney
    Sauvignon Blanc | Kuraka | Marlborough, New Zealand
    Gin Cured Sea Trout (f)
    Fennel, grapefruit, chilli, puffed rice
    Chardonnay | Macon-Villages Les Preludes | Vigneron des terres Secretes | Burgundy | France
    Khasta Murg (d,gl)
    Chicken tikka pie with berry chutney
    Pinot Noir | Les Mougettes | IGP Pays d’Oc | Languedoc | France
    Lamb Shoulder Shank Nihari (d)
    Pulao, khamira naan, ghee-roasted potatoes, lasooni spinach, achari pumpkin
    Grenache, Syrah | Côtes du Rhône Villages Landun Rouge | Luna Maison Sinnae | Southern Rhône | France
    Apple and Walnut Financier (n,gl,e,d)
    with bay leaf custard
    Sauvignon Blanc, Sémillon | Les Pins Monbazillac | Tirecul La Gravière Monbazillac | France
    Petits Fours
    Chef’s Choice
    .
    Allergens: (CR)-Crustaceans, (M)-Mussels (D)-Dairy, (E)-Eggs, (GL)-Gluten, (MU)-Mustard, (N)-Nuts, (SO)-Soya, (V)-Vegan, (C)-Celery

    Dishes are subject to availability. Please alert our staff if you have any food allergies before you order your food and drink.

    All prices are inclusive of VAT. A discretionary service charge of 12.5% will be added to your bill.
  • Diwali

    £46.95 per person

    7th lunch only | 8th November lunch and dinner only

    AMUSE BOUCHE

    Diwali Chaat (d,gl)
    Chef’s seasonal interpretation of an Indian street-food classic

    STARTERS

    Makali fry
    Crisp-fried squid ring with chillies and lime dressing
    Koliwada Jhinga (cr)
    Crisp-fried king prawns with coastal spices, curry leaf, green chilli and kokum dressing
    Lucknowi Galouti Kebab (d)
    Silken lamb kebab delicately spiced with aromatic herbs and spices, served with saffron yoghurt
    Amritsari Murg Tikka (d)
    Chicken breast marinated with dried red chillies, yoghurt and garam masala, baby leaf salad, mint chutney onions, peppers, chilli garlic sauce
    Raj Kachori (d,gl,v)
    regal street food – a large wheat crisp, spiced chickpeas, splash of chutneys, Mumbai sev, pomegranate

    MAIN COURSE

    Kebab Platter (cr,mu,d)
    Lime scented king prawn, lamb boti, mustard salmon, hariyali chicken tikka, amritsari chicken tikka
    Jhinga Kalimirch (cr,d)
    King prawns cooked with crushed peppercorns, tomato onion masala, curry leaves, dried red chillies
    Malvani Fish Curry (mu)
    Roasted halibut, Malvani coconut masala, kokum, curry leaf and green chilli
    Delhi Ka Butter Chicken (d,n)
    Pulled tandoori chicken pieces cooked in an aromatic creamed tomato and fenugreek sauce
    Lamb Nihari (d)
    Pan roasted lamb shank cooked in an aromatic nihari sauce – a Lucknow delicacy
    Tandoori Cauliflower, Makhani & Truffle (d,n,v)
    Whole roasted cauliflower, tandoori spices, makhani sauce, truffle and toasted almonds

    DESSERT

    Shahi Tukda (d,nu)
    Caramelised brioche, saffron rabri, pistachio, rose and vanilla ice cream
    Mango and Passion Fruit Crème Brûlée (d)
    Alphonso mango and vanilla cus-tard, passion fruit, coconut and caramel
    Kulfi Falooda (d,nu)
    Pistachio and saffron kulfi, rose falooda, basil seeds, raspberry and pistachio
    .
    Allergens: (CR)-Crustaceans, (M)-Mussels (D)-Dairy, (E)-Eggs, (GL)-Gluten, (MU)-Mustard, (N)-Nuts, (SO)-Soya, (V)-Vegan

    Please inform your server of any allergies or dietary requirements.

    All prices are inclusive of VAT. A discretionary 12.5% service charge will be added to your bill.
  • Children’s Menu

    £14.95 per child (under 11’s)

    STARTER

    Vegetable Mini Samosa Chaat (d,gl)
    Drizzled with tamarind chutney and yoghurt, Mumbai sev, fresh pomegranate

    MAINS

    (please choose one)
    Prawn Manga Charu (cr)
    Pan-seared king prawns cooked in a mild, flavoursome raw mango and coconut sauce
    Essence Fish and Chips
    Battered fried fish with thick-cut chips served with garlic mayo
    Duo of Chicken (d)
    An assortment of murg malai tikka and chicken hariyali tikka
    Paneer Makhni (d)
    Batons of cottage cheese in a creamy tomato-onion sauce tinged with fenugreek
    Main courses are served with plain rice, plain naan and zesty salad (d,gl,e) (excluding Fish and Chips)

    DESSERTS

    (please choose one)
    Hot Chocolate Brownie (d)
    Vanilla ice cream and chocolate sauce

    Or
    Essence Special Sundae (d)
    Chefs favourite creative dessert for the little ones
    .
    Allergens: (CR)-Crustaceans, (M)-Mussels (D)-Dairy, (E)-Eggs, (GL)-Gluten, (MU)-Mustard, (N)-Nuts, (SO)-Soya, (V) Vegan

    Dishes are subject to availability. Please alert our staff if you have any food allergies before you order your food and drink.

    All prices are inclusive of VAT. A discretionary service charge of 12.5% will be added to your bill.
  • Party Menus

    MAHARANI MENU

    Lunch £49.95 | Dinner £57.95
    (Minimum order 4 persons)
    Amuse Bouche
    Chef’s choice of street food

    Appetisers

    Achari Paneer Tikka (d,mu)
    Paneer tikka marinated in pickled spices, caramelised onions and peppers
    Broccoli Malai Tikka (d)
    Chargrilled broccoli florets, fresh cream, hung curd, wild garlic, parmesan shavings
    Tokri Chaat (d)
    Regal street food, straw potato basket, sweet potato and broad beans chaat, splashed with mint and tamarind chutney, sweet yoghurt, Mumbai sev and fresh pomegranate
    Tandoori Portobello Mushrooms
    Chargrilled pickle spiced portobello mushrooms

    Mains

    Paneer Kali Mirch (d)
    Cottage cheese batons cooked with black pepper, cream and aromatic spices
    Shahi Jackfruit Ka Kofta (d,n)
    Delicate jackfruit kofta in a velvety, aromatic tomato and cashew sauce
    Main course is served with saag makai (d), chatpati aloo gobi masala, jeera pulao, assorted bread basket (d,gl,n), salad and raita (d)

    Dessert

    Chocolate & Orange (d,gl)
    Dark chocolate delice, cocoa nibs, orange ice cream

    YUVRAJ MENU

    Lunch £49.95 | Dinner £57.95
    Minimum order 4 persons
    Amuse Bouche
    Chef’s choice of street food

    Appetisers

    Lehsuni Malai Tikka (d)
    Chargrilled chicken breast marinated in hung curd cheese and wild garlic
    Tandoori Machhli (mu)
    Tandoori mustard salmon infused with dill leaves
    Lamb Seekh Kebab (d)
    Fine spiced minced lamb skewered in the tandoor

    Mains

    Dilli Ka Chicken Tikka Masala
    Chargrilled boneless chicken tikka cooked in an aromatic tomato-onion sauce tinged with fenugreek – reminiscent of old Delhi royalty
    Junglee Maas (mu)
    Tender diced kid goat, slow-cooked in a bold Rajasthani curry of Mathania chillies, garlic and aromatic whole spices, a rich fiery finish
    Main course is served with saag makai (d), chatpati aloo gobi masala, jeera pulao, assorted bread basket (d,gl,e,n), salad and raita (d)

    Dessert

    Chocolate & Orange (d,gl)
    Dark chocolate delice, cocoa nibs, orange ice cream

    SHAHI MAHARAJA MENU

    Lunch £58.95 | Dinner £68.95
    Minimum order 4 persons
    Amuse Bouche
    Chef’s choice of street food
    Tangra Chilli Prawns (cr,so,gl)
    Kolkata inspired king prawns, peppers, spring onions, chilli garlic sauce
    Bhatti ka Murg (d)
    Chargrilled chicken breast marinated with cumin and mace
    Tandoori Lamb Chop (d)
    Fennel scented lamb chop – Essence signature grill
    Mustard Salmon (mu)
    Chargrilled salmon marinated with mustard and dill
    Seasonal Sorbet
    Dum Ka Murg (d)
    Saffron-infused chicken supreme, slow-cooked on dum with caramelised onion and aromatic spices
    Awadhi Lamb Nihari (d)
    Slow-braised best cuts of lamb leg in an aromatic Nihari gravy, infused with whole spices and ginger, finished with fresh coriander, green chilli and a delicate touch of lime
    Main course is served with saag makai (d), chatpati aloo gobi masala, jeera pulao, assorted bread basket (d,gl,e,n), salad and raita (d)
    Chef’s Special Platter
    .
    Despite our best efforts and whilst we have strict controls in place, our food and drink is prepared in areas where cross contamination may occur, and therefore, we are unable to guarantee that our dishes are free from any allergens. Not all ingredients are listed in each dish, please inform your server of any allergies, or dietary requirements.

    All prices are inclusive of VAT. A discretionary 12.5% service charge will be added to your bill.

    Allergens: (CR)-Crustaceans, (M)-Mussels (D)-Dairy, (E)-Eggs, (GL)-Gluten, (MU)-Mustard, (N)-Nuts, (SO)-Soya, (V)-Vegan
  • Festive Tasting Menus

    £56.95 per person | £39.95 wine pairing

    FESTIVE SIX COURSE TASTING MENU

    Tokri Chaat (d)
    Regal street food, straw potato basket, spiced green chickpeas and potato, splashed with mint and tamarind chutney, sweet yoghurt, Mumbai sev and fresh pomegranate
    Karara Kekda (cr,e)
    Golden-fried crispy soft shell crab delicately spiced with Kashmiri chilli, apple and corn salad, passion fruit chilli chutney
    Chapel Down Brut Reserve, Kent, England
    Tangra Chilli Prawns (cr,so,e,gl)
    Kolkata inspired batter-fried king prawns, peppers, spring onions, chilli garlic sauce
    Riesling, Pikes, Claire Valley, Australia
    Seasonal Sorbet
    Dum ka Murg (d)
    Saffron-infused chicken supreme, slow-cooked on dum with caramelised onion and aromatic spices
    Pinot Noir, Les Mougeottes, Pays D’oc, France
    Or
    Halibut Moillie
    Pan-seared halibut, grilled asparagus, idiyappam, moillie sauce
    Rioja Reserva, Monte Real, Spain
    Or
    Shahi Lamb
    Fennel scented lamb chop, tender diced kid goat masala and grilled asparagus
    Albariño, ‘Genio y Figura’, Spain
    Main course is served with dal makhni, garlic naan and lemon rice
    Dessert (d)
    Spiced tandoori apple with caramelised fig ice cream
    Royal Tokaji, late harvest, Tokaji, Hungary
    .
    Allergens: (CR)-Crustaceans, (M)-Mussels (D)-Dairy, (E)-Eggs, (GL)-Gluten, (MU)-Mustard, (N)-Nuts, (SO)-Soya, (V)-Vegan

    Please inform your server of any allergies or dietary requirements.

    All prices are inclusive of VAT. A discretionary 12.5% service charge will be added to your bill.
  • Christmas Day

    £110 per person | £70 per child (under 11 yrs)
    A deposit of £50 per person is required
    Opening hours: 12:00 – 18:00
    Welcome cocktail
    Spiced Peach Bellini
    Lobster Tart (cr, gl)
    Cornish lobster, tomato and chilli chutney, saffron malai, curry leaf

    Appetisers (Choose any one)

    Duck Galawat
    Lucknowi duck galawat, smoked plum chutney, crisp lotus root
    Jalpari (cr,d)
    pan-seared hand dived scallops, moillie sauce, crushed wasabi
    Chengezi Champein (d)
    fennel scented chargrilled lamb chops with zesty orange and baby leaf salad
    Kashmiri Turkey Tikka
    chargrilled turkey supreme, Kashmiri chilli, fennel and mace, saffron yoghurt, smoked plum and pistachio
    Raj Kachori (d,gl,v)
    regal street food – a large wheat crisp, spiced chickpeas, splash of chutneys, Mumbai sev, pomegranate

    Mains (Choose any one)

    Sikandari Raan (d)
    roasted lamb shank, lamb jus, garlic cumin potatoes, baby carrots
    Punjabi Murg Makhanwala (d)
    chargrilled chicken supreme, makhni sauce, Amritsari pindi chole foam
    Lobster Malabar Curry (cr,d)
    chargrilled Cornish lobster tail, shrimp balchao uttapam, pak choi, Malabar sauce
    Monkfish Ghee Roast (d)
    chargrilled monkfish, Mangalorean ghee roast masala, kokum, curry leaf and coconut
    Guchhi & Artichoke Kofta (d,n)
    Kashmiri morel and artichoke kofta, saffron-Awadhi sauce, black truffle and pistachio
    Main courses are served with beans poriyal, tilwale aloo, yakhni pulao and assorted breads (d,gl,e,n)
    Dessert (d,n)
    Essence Christmas Pudding – Spiced Christmas pudding, saffron-cardamom crème anglaise, cranberry-orange compote, pistachio praline and honeycomb ice cream
    A glass of mulled wine | coffee and mince pies
    .
    Allergens: (CR)-Crustaceans, (M)-Mussels (D)-Dairy, (E)-Eggs, (GL)-Gluten, (MU)-Mustard, (N)-Nuts, (SO)-Soya, (V)-Vegan

    Please inform your server of any allergies or dietary requirements.

    All prices are inclusive of VAT. A discretionary 12.5% service charge will be added to your bill.
  • Boxing Day

    £49 per person | £32 per child (under 11 yrs)
    A deposit of £30 per person is required

    1st seating: 12:00pm – 2:45pm | 2nd seating: 3:00pm- 5:45pm
    Dinner: 6:00 – 10:00pm

    APPETISERS

    (choose any one)
    Makali fry
    crispy fried squid with chillies, lime and chilli dressing
    Malvani Prawns (cr)
    chargrilled king prawns, Malvani spices, smoked pepper chutney
    Bhatti Ka Murg (d)
    chargrilled chicken supreme marinated in cumin and mace, served with plum chutney
    Lamb Seekh Kebab (d)
    hand-minced lamb, Kashmiri chilli, roasted cumin & coriander, charred onion, mint yoghurt and pomegranate
    Tangra Chilli Paneer (d,so,gl)
    crispy batons of cottage cheese, spring onions, peppers, garlic chilli sauce

    MAINS

    (choose any one)
    Coastal Seafood Moilee (cr,m,d)
    pan-seared king prawns, sea bass, green-lipped mussels, delicate coconut moilee, kokum, ginger, curry leaf and charred lemon
    Chicken Chettinad (d)
    pan-seared chicken supreme stuffed with baby spinach and wild garlic, chettinad sauce
    Ahuna Gosht (mu,d)
    slow-braised lamb shoulder, Bihari whole spices, black cardamom, roasted garlic, caramelised onion and rich lamb jus
    Laal Maas (d,mu)
    chargrilled Angus fillet steak, Rajasthani spices, jus, gunpowder chips (£9 supplement)
    Shahi Malai Kofta (d,n)
    artichoke and vegetable dumplings, Awadhi saffron sauce
    Main courses are served with aloo thoran, saag makai, navrattan pulao and garlic coriander naan (d,gl,e)
    Dessert
    Duo chocolate parfait with salted caramel ice cream (d)
    .
    Allergens: (CR)-Crustaceans, (M)-Mussels (D)-Dairy, (E)-Eggs, (GL)-Gluten, (MU)-Mustard, (N)-Nuts, (SO)-Soya, (V)-Vegan

    Please inform your server of any allergies or dietary requirements.

    All prices are inclusive of VAT. A discretionary 12.5% service charge will be added to your bill.
  • New Years Eve

    1st seating: £59.95 per person | £39 per child (under 11 yrs) 5:15pm – 8:15pm (A deposit of £25 per person is required)
    2nd seating: £109.95 per person

    APPETISERS

    (choose any one)
    Raj Kachori (d,gl,v)
    regal street food – a large wheat crisp, spiced chickpeas, splash of chutneys, Mumbai sev, pomegranate
    Makali fry
    crispy fried squid with chilli and lime dressing
    Tangra chilly prawns (so,cr,gl,e)
    tiger prawns stir fried with chilli sauce, onions & peppers
    Murg Teen Rang (d)
    chargrilled chicken supreme three ways; saffron and garlic malai, green mango and coriander, black pepper and smoked plum
    Venison Kosha Pithivier (d,gl)
    slow-cooked venison kosha mangsho, caramelised onion, black cardamom, smoked plum, flaky pastry
    Duo of Lamb (d)
    star anise & fennel scented lamb chop and lamb boti kebab skewered in the tandoor

    MAINS

    (choose any one)
    Jhinga Angaare (cr,mu)
    chargrilled king prawn, smoked chilli-coconut, kokum, green mango and curry leaf, kokum & saffron velouté
    Essence Kebab Platter (d,cr,mu)
    lemon scented king prawn, mustard salmon, malai chicken tikka, hariyali chicken tikka and lamb chop
    Dum Ka Murg (d)
    slow-cooked corn-fed chicken supreme, saffron and mace dum sauce, caramelised Roscoff onion, smoked almond and crisp chicken skin
    Dilli Ka Butter Chicken (d,n)
    tandoori pulled chicken in a creamed tomato and fenugreek sauce
    Dak Bungalow Curry (d,gl)
    Anglo Indian lamb rump curry, masala potato, lamb samosa
    Angus Beef Cheeni (d,gl,mu)
    chargrilled Angus fillet steak, black pepper and jaggery glaze, tamarind, curry leaf and smoked onion
    Rajasthani Subz Soola Sashlik (d,so)
    a mélange of chargrilled cottage cheese, broccoli, soya chaap served with a tangy kadhai sauce
    Main courses are served with beans poriyal, udaigiri aloo, tomato rice and garlic coriander naan (d,gl,e,n)
    Dessert
    Passion fruit tart, jalebi ice cream (d,gl)
    .
    Allergens: (CR)-Crustaceans, (M)-Mussels (D)-Dairy, (E)-Eggs, (GL)-Gluten, (MU)-Mustard, (N)-Nuts, (SO)-Soya, (V)-Vegan

    Please inform your server of any allergies or dietary requirements.

    All prices are inclusive of VAT. A discretionary 12.5% service charge will be added to your bill.
  • New Year’s Day

    2 Courses £43.95 | 3 Courses- £46.95
    A deposit of £25 per person is required
    1st seating: 12:30pm – 2:45pm | 2nd seating: 3:00pm – 5:45 pm
    Dinner – à la carte menu

    APPETISERS

    (choose any one)
    Raj Kachori (d,gl,v)
    regal street food – a large wheat crisp, spiced chickpeas, splash of chutneys, Mumbai sev, pomegranate
    Tangra chilli prawns (cr,so,gl,e)
    Indo-Chinese style sweet and sour prawns with peppers and onions
    Makali Fry (mo)
    crispy fried squid with chilli and lime dressing
    Chicken Reshmi Kebab (d)
    silken minced chicken kebab, fresh basil, green mango, saffron yoghurt and pickled cucumber
    Duck Keema Pao (d,gl)
    spiced duck keema, quail egg, toasted mini pao, kachumber and mint
    Lamb Seekh Kebab (d)
    fine spiced minced lamb coated with onions and pepper, skewered in the tandoor

    MAINS

    (choose any one)
    Kebab Platter (cr,d,mu)
    chargrilled king prawn, mustard salmon, lehsuni malai chicken tikka, hariyali chicken tikka and lamb burra kebab
    Saag Murg (d)
    chargrilled chicken supreme, baby spinach and fenugreek masala, crisp potato and garlic yoghurt
    Malabar Prawn Curry (cr,d)
    pan-seared king prawns podi masala, coconut and tamarind sauce, shrimp balchao cutlet
    Lamb Nihari
    slow-braised lamb neck fillet, aromatic nihari jus, ginger, pickled shallot and baby potato
    Shahi Kofta (d,n,v)
    spiced artichoke and vegetable dumplings served in a tangy Awadhi korma
    Main courses are served with podi aloo, saag makai, pulao rice and garlic coriander naan (d,gl,e)

    DESSERT

    Kesar Kulfi Tart (d,gl)
    Saffron kulfi tart, pistachio praline, cardamom pastry, rose and raspberry, crisp jalebi
    .
    Allergens: (CR)-Crustaceans, (M)-Mussels (D)-Dairy, (E)-Eggs, (GL)-Gluten, (MU)-Mustard, (N)-Nuts, (SO)-Soya, (V)-Vegan

    Dishes are subject to availability. Please alert our staff if you have any food allergies before you order your food and drink.

    All prices are inclusive of VAT a discretionary service charge of 12.5% will be added to your bill
  • Desserts

    Chocolate fondant (d, e)
    Molten chocolate cake, cocoa nib crunch, orange curd ice cream
    £9
    Masala Chai Crème Brûlée (d,gl)
    Masala chai crème brûlée, gingerbread crumble, orange andcranberry compote, pistachio praline
    £9
    Spiced Apple & Plum Crumble (d,gl,n)
    Warm cinnamon-spiced apple and plum, cardamom crumble, vanilla-cinnamon ice cream, jaggery caramel & pistachio
    £9
    Sticky Date Pudding (d)
    Fresh ginger ice cream, jaggery caramel, candied ginger
    £9
    Rose & Raspberry Bhapa Doi (d,n)
    Silken saffron & rose bhapa doi, raspberry gel, pistachio praline, cardamom crumble, candied rose
    £9
    Kulfi falooda (d, gl, n)
    Saffron rabdi, rose falooda
    £9
    Choice of Ice Creams (d,e)
    Stem ginger and turmeric, burnt ghee, orange curd
    £8.50
    Seasonal Sorbet
    Passion fruit, coconut, raspberry
    £8.50

    DESSERT WINES 75ML

    Chenin blanc, Baumard Carte d’Or, France 2013
    £9
    Royal Tokaji, Late Harvest, Hungary 2018
    £10

    PORT 75ML

    LBV, Taylors 2011
    £11
    Smith Woodhouse Vintage Port 2011
    £19.5
    LIQUEURS 50ML
    £8

    COGNAC AND ARMAGNAC 50 ML

    Hennessy VS
    £11
    Remy Martin VSOP
    £14
    Baron de Sigognac 10yo
    £15
    Seven Tails XO
    £16
    Hennessey XO
    £38
    Espresso Martini
    Vanilla vodka, Kahlúa, coffee
    £13.5
    Chocolate Martini
    Vanilla vodka and chocolate liqueur
    £13.5
    Floater Liqueur Coffee
    Baileys, Jameson Whiskey, brandy
    £10
    Coffee – 100% arabica coffee beans Italian single estate
    Espresso • Americano • Cappuccino • Latte • Flat White
    £4.95
    Chai
    Masala Chai Tea (made the traditional way)
    Green Tea • Assam • English Breakfast • Darjeeling Fresh Mint • Earl Grey
    £4.75
    .
    Allergens: (CR)-Crustaceans, (M)-Mussels (D)-Dairy, (E)-Eggs, (GL)-Gluten, (MU)-Mustard, (N)-Nuts, (SO)-Soya, (V) Vegan All prices are inclusive of VAT. A discretionary service charge of 12.5% willl be added to your bill.
HOURS

Open seven days per week

Monday to Thursday
Lunch: 12 noon – 2.30 pm
Dinner: 5.30 pm – 10.00 pm

Friday
12 noon – 2.30 pm
5.30 pm -10.30 pm

Saturday
12 noon – 10.30 pm

Sunday
12 noon – 2.30 pm
5.30 pm to 9.00 pm

CONTACT

01892 362 332
info@essencerestaurants.co.uk

Kickstart your career with us.
We are looking for managers, barstaff, KP and waiters.
jeet@essencerestaurants.co.uk

Award winning restaurant Tunbridge Wells Buckinghamshire  Romantic restaurant Tunbridge Wells in Kent

AA Awards for culinary excellence badge