3 Monkeys

A jewel in the crown of SE London is the 3 Monkey's Indian restaurant. Not a sign of flock wallpaper in sight, the decor is light and airy and the cooking highly regarded. Expect the best of regional Indian cuisine prepared in one of the oldest traditions of cooking, including the tandoori oven, sigri and kadai grill. There is a dramatic show kitchen with chefs on view preparing special dishes. 'Time Out' finalist for 'Best Local Restaurant 1999' - richly deserved. What's cooking? Chaamp Taazdaar - an ineffably aromatic and succulent rack of lamb braised slowly in a perfectly balanced liquor with an infusion of cloves, cardamom and pathar ke phool, Allepey Seafood Curry - A variety of seafood stewed in coconut milk with shredded ginger, soured with raw mango and for vegetarians - Baadal Jaam - Slices of aubergine 'dummed' tender with a topping of spicy tomato chutney and crowned with a dollop of garlic flavoured yoghurt.