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Undoubtedly a
man for unusual locations, his focus this time is the 02 Arena, once
known as the Millennium Dome. Iqbal and his Glorious Group have made
a major investment at the Arena now used for major concerts and
events. They have been clever enough to bracket people as they enter
the dome and are, unsurprisingly, packed when events are taking
place.
On the left
there is a major bar and above that there will soon be a British and
an American restaurant all owned by Glorious. Raan is on the opposite
side of the plaza and captures the eye immediately you enter. The
décor is a smart art deco style fronted by bushes. On the
ground floor is a chic bar and reception and the restaurant is at
first floor level. The décor is modern and once again rather
art deco and the main feature is the open kitchen which has become a
feature of so many new restaurants. With such a large and popular bar
it is not surprising that there is a good list of cocktails and house
wine starts from £16.
If you are
expecting a fine dining menu a la Cinnamon Club, forget it. The theme
at Raan is North Indian grills produced by top class chefs from
India. The style of clientele is emphasised by the inclusion of a
Children's Menu for £6.50 including chicken tikka, lamb kebab
and paneer. The main menu has starters including Tandoori Smoked
Salmon (£6.50) ; Tandoori Maine Lobster (£10) and Corn fed
Chicken Tikka (£6). Main courses include Tandoor Whole Mackerel
; Goan Spiced Sea Bass ; Chargrilled King Prawns (£18) ;
Tandoori Maine Lobster (£20) ; Rajasthan spiced lamb (£12)
and Tandoor potatoes stuffed with paneer (£9.50). The black
lentil dish is a great favourite (£2.50). Breads are £2 and
desserts £4.00. There is even a private dining area for that
special occasion.
If you go on a
quiet night as we did, don't be fooled. The atmosphere may be very
relaxed when nothing specific is happening at the Arena but when
there is the atmosphere is buzzing and the tills ringing. Undoubtedly
another success for Mr Wahhab and his colleagues. |
