Quiet, rich and exotic – but what else would you expect when Benares Restaurant and Bar sits above a Rolls Royce dealership in Mayfair?

The Venue
From the outside, Benares Restaurant and Bar looks like nothing. It is simply a door facing Berkeley Square; but once inside and up the stairs it opens up like a Tardis - the restaurant and bar, which are on the first floor, are deceptively large, open and stylish. Upon entering the bar you are enchanted by candles and brightly coloured gerbera flowers floating in pools of water. The walls are dark wood and there are groups of comfortable furniture.

The Atmosphere
Hedge fund guys and their trophy wives (or is it the mistress? It’s hard to tell) mix with the odd celebrity in this fashionable Mayfair spot. The crowd is well dressed and speak in hushed tones. The service is efficient, if a bit stiff. Heavy scents of spices also hang in the air.

The Food
There is a small bar menu with tempting finger foods, which display the same level of detail that appears next door in their Michelin-starred restaurant. This is Indian-fusion cuisine, which is a far cry from your local curry house. Several options cater to vegetarians. Prices are not cheap, but certainly not scandalous given the environment and the neighbourhood.

The Drink
This is the best part - an extensive drinks menu offers up several Benares Restaurant and Bar custom cocktails featuring fresh, exotic juices and surprising ingredients such as curry leaves. For those who don’t like cocktails, there are a number of wines by the glass, beer as well as non-alcoholic cocktails.

The Last Word
Definitely worth a visit if you are looking for a sophisticated night out. Particularly well-suited for a first date (it’s quiet enough to talk) or to impress out-of-towners. Bring your credit card, as it is a bit pricey; however, in this case, you do get what you pay for. Benares Restaurant and Bar is a class act.

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