Sarkhel's
199 Replingham Road (SW18 near Southfields Tube)

My second evening in London was a busy one, but properly rewarded. I had spent the day discussing the founding of a new company with some friends, and we rewarded ourself for the hard work at London's best Indian restaurant (and frankly, the best Indian restaurant outside of the sub-continent), Sarkhel's. As usual, it was a total treat.

We were celebrating, so the wine was flowing for the three of us. As one of my partners in the company is vegetarian, it was not a difficult split for us with so much of the menu fitting for vegetarian diners (but for carnivores it is even better!). We split two starters -- the gade pakore (fish fritters) is just absolutely delicious, as well as the vegetarian version (which is diverse and interesting).

For the main course it is always a horribly difficult choice. For me, it's always been between the tandoori pomfret (fish) and the lamb shank -- both are amongst the best you'll ever have. But it's hard to get good fish in Indian restaurants, so I chose the pomfret. Amazing... My mates had other wonderful dishes; one even said that the chicken tandoori, the usually boring dish, was absolutely stunning. Excellent!

The restaurant is rather relaxed with amazingly good food, and not always easy to get a table. But the service is quick and attentive, perfect for solo diners or groups. I've never had an experience here less than amazing. It's a hike from central London, but it is definitely worth the ride on the District Line.

Food: A
Atmosphere: B
For Lone Diners: A-