Amaya

Members choose Amaya for:

• A working lunch in Mayfair, from the owners of Chutney Mary.
• For Michelin-starred Indian food with great vegetarian options.
• For a light lunch - there's a low cal option of the equivalent of three courses for under 400 calories.
• For a romantic dinner à deux.

Our expert Hernan Castro-Vidal says: 'Amaya is an eclectic mix of modern and traditional Indian, with its minimalist furniture and Indian statues. It's eclectic, but it's a hit with the well-heeled set that frequents it. By day Amaya is light, spacious, contemporary and cool. The glass ceiling allows natural light to flood the restaurant, which makes it a bright, buzzy lunch choice. By night it's a sultry, exotic Indian hideaway with low lighting and a multitude of candles which illuminate the rosewood panelling and pink sandstone walls.

'This interesting mix of styles is reflected in the menu, which takes traditional Indian dishes and gives them a contemporary shake up. The grazing menu comprises marinated meat, fish, poultry and vegetables, which are grilled using three different techniques: a clay oven (tandoor), hot coals (sigri) and a thick iron plate (tawa).

'The grilled oysters are a particular highlight, and the vegetarian dishes are varied and plentiful. There isn't a traditional three-course structure to the menu; several small dishes are usually shared by parties and are served when they're ready, arriving at a slow, steady pace.

'We can book private rooms that fit up to 14 people, but much of the ambience of Amaya relies on the tables. These are lots of fun, and appeal both to those who want a quiet meal or a fun night out. At the back of the restaurant is the open kitchen, where the theatrical showmanship of the dressed-in-black chefs takes place.'

Guide price

£60

Insider tips:

• Amaya can be tricky to find as it's hidden down a little arcade off Motcomb Street, but what makes it hard to find also contributes to its exclusive feel.
• The theatricality of the kitchen is a highlight; we can book members a table with a great view of the culinary show.
• Veeraswamy, Amaya's sister restaurant, is the UK's oldest Indian restaurant. Amaya's owners also run Masala Zone, London's upmarket answer to Indian 'fast food', and the award-winning Chutney Mary.
• Amaya's long, rosewood bar serves exotic cocktails; members have enjoyed having a drink here before an evening meal.
• For intimate parties, business meetings or conferences, we can book the Silver Room for members. A private room that makes a statement – it has shimmery wallpaper and purple lighting – and seats up to 14. We can liaise with Amaya and members to arrange menus, flowers and decorations. The Silver Room is also available for conferences, meetings, and launches.