Having long been a fan of the charming and talented Vivek Singh, I was excited at the chance to celebrate the festival at his city outpost Cinnamon Kitchen – although I’ll admit to trepidation on approaching the venue, and sudden regret at the fairly important meeting I had later that day.
Within minutes everyone was coated in sprays and splodges, in hair, eyes and mouths, covering anyone close from top to toe. The powder tastes and smells oddly pleasant, so no hardship, just lots of fun.
I’m fortunate enough to have dined at Cinnamon Kitchen a couple of times before and the Holi lunch surpassed all expectations. Grilled Kentish lamb escalopes were tender and gorgeously spicy served with a fresh paprika raita (try saying that after a few Neela Heeras). The main was king prawn coconut curry which was creamy and comforting with huge, juicy prawns, ghee rice and a side of rich daal. A sweet carrot samosa with fig-semolina halwa was up next followed by coffee and petit-fours to finish.
It really is a great event to take part in and very reasonably priced – just be careful which meetings you arrange for the rest of the day.
The Holi festival runs until 14th March and is £8 for paint throwing, £15 for paint throwing, a cocktail and canapés or £38 for paint throwing and a five-course meal. www.cinnamon-kitchen.com