Fatt Pundit
Restaurant | London | England | United Kingdom
The "Fatt Pundit" in London, England, is an extraordinary restaurant that has made a name for itself with its creative interpretation of Indo-Chinese cuisine. It is part of a small but growing chain, originating in the vibrant Soho and later opening a second location in Covent Garden. The name "Fatt Pundit" is a playful combination of the Chinese surname "Fatt" and the Indian word "Pundit", reflecting the fusion of the two culinary traditions that are at the heart of the restaurant. This cuisine has its roots in Kolkata, where the Hakka Chinese combined their cooking techniques with Indian spices, and the "Fatt Pundit" brings this heritage to London with a modern twist.
The atmosphere at "Fatt Pundit" is lively and inviting, with a design that harkens back to the colonial era but has been refreshed with contemporary elements. The Soho location boasts a cozy, slightly quirky decor with dark wood and warm lighting, while the Covent Garden branch offers a more modern, airy feel with two floors, including a striking open kitchen. Both locations exude an energized vibe, enhanced by the bustling activity of guests and the friendly bustle of the staff. Particularly noteworthy is the attention to detail in the presentation – from the handcrafted tables to the artistic wall decorations that capture a postcolonial aesthetic.
Culinarily, "Fatt Pundit" is a feast for the senses, presenting traditional Indo-Chinese dishes with a creative touch. A standout is the Crackling Spinach, a crispy spinach variation refined with sesame, pomegranate seeds, and a sweet and sour sauce, often celebrated as one of the restaurant's best vegetable dishes. Equally impressive are the Lamb Chops with black bean dust, perfectly grilled over charcoal, convincing with their intense, smoky flavor – a dish that masterfully balances spice and tenderness. For seafood lovers, the Monkfish Curry stands out, a spicy curry that highlights the diversity of the cuisine with its creamy consistency and complex flavors. The dishes are often served as small sharing portions, promoting communal dining and allowing guests to discover a wide range of flavors.
The service at "Fatt Pundit" is another highlight. The staff is described as friendly, helpful, and knowledgeable, although there may be occasional delays on particularly busy days. The servers are attentive to explaining the menu to guests – helpful with such a unique fusion cuisine – and accommodate individual preferences, such as allergies or special requests. The restaurant is family-friendly but also attracts couples and groups of friends who enjoy the lively atmosphere and creative cocktails, like the Guava Cocktail, which delights with its fruity note and hint of spice.
"Fatt Pundit" has established itself as a place that not only presents Indo-Chinese cuisine but also reinterprets it by combining traditional elements with modern techniques. It is particularly known for its sustainability and the use of high-quality ingredients, often locally sourced. The popularity is evident in the regularly full tables and queues that form especially on weekends – a sign that the restaurant has become a staple of the London dining scene.
Overall, "Fatt Pundit" offers excellent value for money and an experience that stands out for its uniqueness. Criticism is rare, although some guests may find the portion sizes slightly small or criticize the noise levels on busy days. However, these points fade in the face of the overwhelming positive feedback on the delicious food, friendly service, and special atmosphere. For anyone visiting London and craving a tasteful journey through Indo-Chinese cuisine, "Fatt Pundit" is an absolute highlight – a place that leaves a lasting impression with its flavors, charm, and creativity.
