A Refined Journey Through Kerala Flavours
Quilon in London presents an elegant Onam Brunch celebrating Kerala cuisine, where Chef Sriram Aylur blends tradition and innovation through vibrant dishes, immersive storytelling, and Michelin-starred culinary excellence.
S ituated in the heart of London, just moments from Buckingham Palace, Quilon Restaurant delivers a dining experience that seamlessly blends Michelin-starred precision with the bold, coastal flavours of South West Indian cuisine. During a recent weekend visit, I explored their celebrated Onam Brunch — a thoughtfully curated menu that beautifully captures the spirit of this cherished South Indian harvest festival.
From the outset, Quilon’s refined ambience and warm, attentive service set the tone for an immersive culinary journey. Available every Saturday and Sunday, the Onam Brunch showcases an extensive selection of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes inspired by Kerala’s rich culinary heritage, all crafted under the expert guidance of Chef Sriram Aylur.
Quilon delivers an elegant, immersive dining experience with refined ambience, exceptional service, and deeply authentic South West Indian coastal flavours.
Chef Aylur’s culinary story is deeply rooted in tradition. Inspired by his father’s passion for cooking, he pursued formal training before beginning his career with Taj Hotels. He later gained acclaim with the renowned Karavali Restaurant, eventually bringing his vision to London with Quilon — a restaurant that elegantly balances authenticity with innovation. Its Michelin star stands as a testament to his progressive approach and dedication to South West Indian cuisine.
Highlights from the review
- Michelin-starred South West Indian coastal cuisine
- Celebrated Onam Brunch experience in London
- Chef Sriram Aylur’s signature culinary vision
- Authentic Kerala dishes with modern refinement
- Elegant ambience near Buckingham Palace
- Knowledgeable staff enhancing cultural storytelling
- Extensive vegetarian and non-vegetarian offerings
- Traditional flavours presented with contemporary flair
- Signature Malabar paratha and classic Kerala desserts
- A true cultural and gastronomic journey
A highlight of the experience was the staff’s deep knowledge and genuine enthusiasm. Each dish arrived with a thoughtful introduction, offering insights into its origins and flavour profile, adding a meaningful cultural dimension to the meal.
Opting for the Vegetarian Onam Brunch, I was treated to a vibrant progression of flavours and textures. The experience began with a playful sweet potato chaat — crisp, tangy, and layered with contrasting elements — followed by a refreshing watermelon kosambri that acted as a palate cleanser.
A traditional assortment of snacks set the stage: coin papadams, banana and jackfruit chips, sarkara varatti, alongside chutneys and pickles — each offering a glimpse into the diversity of Kerala’s culinary landscape.
The starters reflected both authenticity and creativity. The stuffed tapioca chop, paired with mint sauce, delivered a satisfying contrast of textures, while the banana flower vada with curry leaf chutney offered depth and complexity. A mini masala dosa, served with sambhar, provided a familiar yet refined touch.
The main course was a true celebration of Kerala’s home-style cooking. Dishes like kada chakka thiyal (breadfruit curry) showcased bold, roasted spice profiles, while olan — a delicate stew of ash gourd and black-eyed beans in coconut milk — brought a subtle balance of richness and restraint. Avial, a medley of vegetables with coconut, highlighted the cuisine’s harmony of flavours.
Comforting dishes such as erissery (pumpkin with coconut), cooling vellarikka pachadi (cucumber yoghurt), and a lightly spiced beans and carrot thoran complemented the meal beautifully. These were served with fragrant Kerala red rice and steamed rice, enhancing the overall experience.
The standout accompaniment was the Malabar paratha — flaky, layered, and perfectly suited for soaking up the rich curries.
Dessert was a fitting finale: ada pradaman, pal payasam, and pazham pori each showcased the depth and sweetness of traditional Kerala confections, leaving a lasting impression.
Quilon’s Onam Brunch is more than just a meal — it’s a cultural and culinary exploration that transports diners to the sun-drenched coasts of South India. While the depth and authenticity of the dishes may particularly resonate with those familiar with Indian cuisine, it also offers an excellent introduction for curious diners eager to explore Kerala’s distinctive flavours.
With its elegant setting, exceptional craftsmanship, and deeply rooted culinary narrative, Quilon stands as a destination for those seeking a refined South Asian dining experience in London. Whether you are a seasoned enthusiast of Indian cuisine or an adventurous epicurean, this is a journey well worth taking.
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