Imran Mansuri brings refined Indian flavours to Putney with the opening of Raaz
Raaz, the debut solo venture from chef Imran Mansuri, officially opened its doors this September on Lower Richmond Road in Putney. The restaurant marks a significant milestone for Mansuri, who brings over 20 years of experience from some of London’s most acclaimed Indian establishments, including Tamarind, Benares, Jamavar, Annabel’s and Kolamba. With Raaz, he aims to combine fine dining techniques with the flavours of his upbringing in a more relaxed, neighbourhood setting.
The 60-cover restaurant, which also features a 14-seat outdoor terrace, offers a contemporary take on Indian cuisine, blending traditional elements with modern interpretations. The interior design of Raaz combines walnut panelling, floral wallpaper and gold accents to create a space that is both polished and informal. A long bar runs through the centre, while a glass-roofed rear dining area provides a brighter setting during the day and a more intimate atmosphere in the evening. There’s also a six-seat private nook that offers a more secluded dining option.
The menu includes a selection of street-food-inspired chaats and tandoori dishes, as well as more substantial mains. Highlights include an Overnight-cooked Beef Nihari Rib, finished with marrow, Cornish lamb chops served with kadai mushrooms and quail egg, and a Malabar Fish Curry made with seabass in a coconut broth. Vegetarian dishes are given equal attention, such as Essex Pumpkin Moilee and Malai Broccoli with cauliflower purée and pickled onion.
Sourcing is seasonal and local where possible, with produce from Essex farms featuring prominently. The drinks offering is similarly curated, with cocktails like a Turmeric Gin and Tonic and a Coconut-washed Coastal Old Fashioned. A compact wine list has been designed to complement the spices in the food, and non-alcoholic options include mango lassi and house-made sodas.
The restaurant’s name translates as “secret” in Hindi – a nod to the personal nature of the project. “Raaz isn’t about recreating Mayfair,” the team explains, “It’s something more personal, shaped by the flavours of his childhood, sharpened by years in London’s top kitchens.”
Food Desk
To book a table at Raaz, 113 Lower Richmond Road, London SW15 1EX, call 020 4568 7467 or visit the restaurant’s website here.
Facebook
Twitter
Instagram
YouTube
RSS