London: Tata-owned flagship Taj Hotel has launched a new corner restaurant in Britain which is set to become the new favourite celebrity hangout.
The five-star Taj Buckingham Gate, a stone's throw from Buckingham Palace in the heart of London, is already the preferred venue for visiting Indian ministers, diplomats and Bollywood stars.
The new 'Kona' restaurant takes its name from its positioning at a quiet secluded corner of the Tata Group hotel.
"Kona is set to become a haven from the hustle and bustle of Victoria and St James'. A place where not only our resident guests can retreat, but also where Londoners and visitors can indulge in a sophisticated dining experience in a luxurious yet laid-back ambience," said Digvijay Singh, general manager of the luxury hotel.
The cuisine at the 46-seater Kona is an interpretation of the colours, flavours and vibrancy of Southern European cuisine, marrying traditional cooking techniques from the French Riviera and the coast of Liguria in Italy with a modern twist.
Signature dishes include Lobster Bisque and Foie Gras brioche as well as vegetarian and gluten-free options, sourced from local ingredients.
"We are proud to launch Kona during such an exciting time for the London food scene. Our mission is to present guests with uncomplicated dishes, which allow for locally sourced ingredients to take centre-stage, " said Taj executive chef David Tilly, who has worked alongside chef Tom Cruise on the menu which will be revamped every few months.
"Kona will add another string to our bow and prove a great addition to the hotel's culinary offering," he said.
The restaurant's history as a Victorian townhouse is well reflected as the decor creates a collage of luxurious furnishings and contemporary design.
A separate library room with a fireplace, plump sofas and armchairs is designed as a place to relax with a post-dinner aperitif, with Bollywood star Abhishek Bachchan already among its early guests this week.
The restaurant launch comes soon after a new Cellar Room launched at the Hamptons Bar on the hotel premises, which includes an unusual Champagne - Flight Experience which offers three champagne tasters and specifically paired canaps.
