As Christmas approach, there is a myriad of dining experiences to be had in London from themed to special festive menus. My latest escape was The Jungle Book themed meal at St James’ Court, a luxury hotel located between Buckingham Palace and the Houses of Parliament in Westminster. It’s very central and easy to find, if you work, live or just visiting London it’s worth to drop by.
The hotel was build in 1902 and considered one of the best-appointed establishment at the time, and it still holds a high position amongst the locals.
After two films and a large number of books sold, The Jungle Book is without a doubt one of the best-loved stories ever told. A book that evokes childhood memories. I remember the story so well. As a child in Brazil, I used to have a portable vinyl player and a collection of kids’ books on vinyl. I remember playing Jungle book non-stop and singing-a-long, I had endless fun with that vinyl collection.
Fast forward and here I am living in London and loving it. The dinner at St James’ Court brought back some lovely memories with an Indian twist to spice up the proceedings. The dishes are named after the characters in the book.
They also are selling an exclusive limited hardback edition of The Jungle Book in partnership with Born Free Foundation to raise awareness about the threatened tiger species worldwide. The book and menu proceeds will go towards Born Free’s tiger conservation work in India.
The Jungle Book dining experience
Pappu Ka Samosa Chaat Hati’s carrot and coconut shot Kaa’s stir fried chicken |
handmodel: @Cooksister |
Shere Khan’s lamb rogan josh, aromatic lamb recipe of Persian origin, the signature dish of Kashmiri cuisine. spices: coriander, chilli, cumin, paprika, turmeric, garam masala |
Baloo’s machli tawa fry – Tilapia was the choice of fish |
Bandar-log’s daal tadka, cooked lentils tempered with oil or ghee fried spices & herbs. |
Rama’s palak panner, from the Punjab region of the Indian Subcontinent, consisting of spinach, tomato and paneer seasoned with garlic, garam masala, and spices. |
Mowgli’s vegetable biryani, a classic Indian dish, basmati rice, assorted vegetables in a spicy masala |
A delicious selection of Indian breads |
a trio of excellent desserts: Gulab jamun cheesecake, refreshing Mango Kulfi and a much welcome bow of fresh fruits |
This menu is priced at £55/person – a charming experience – recommended.
Disclosure: I was a guest at this dinner. All views are my own.