Abdul Yaseen to launch first solo project

The Indian chef will offer a shared dining experience inspired by the banquets of the Indian Royal Court in a relaxed setting at his new restaurant.

The 5,500 sq ft venue will be located near Shoreditch and Liverpool Street. It will house a 70-cover cocktail bar area, 120-cover restaurant including an interactive grill seating area, 20-cover private dining room and a chef's table for up to 10 people.

Design company Nanu Design has worked alongside Yaseen, to create a modern day interpretation of the palaces of ancient India. The restaurant will feature an open kitchen, chandeliers, ornate mirrors and drapes.

Darbaar's cuisine will take its inspiration from the many diverse regions of India - cooking with traditional clay ovens and a large charcoal Robata grill.

The menu will feature healthy grills, street tapas, spit roasts, biryani and royal Indian gravies with artisan bread.

Signature sharing dishes will include Nawabi slow-roasted leg of lamb, Keralan shrimp cocktail and kid goat biryani.

Yaseen moved from Jaipur to London 15 years ago, and was part of the founding team for London restaurant Cinnamon Club.

He went on to become head chef at Cinnamon Kitchen and Anise, where he helped build the Cinnamon brand.

He said: "My vision of Darbaar is to recreate memories where my diners will love to host their tables and encourage sharing the food which once was the charm of the royal courts.

"Love for food has shaped the course of my life, taking me on a fascinating journey from India to the UK where I have spent over a decade promoting modern Indian cuisine to London restaurant-goers.

"Now I'm delighted to offer Darbaar to the capital and I look forward to giving you a royal welcome soon."

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