Fine dining in Hertfordshire - Madhu's at The Grove

We recently visited the newly refurbished Madhu’s at The Grove. Marketing itself as offering an elevated South Asian dining experience, we were very much looking forward to checking out this restaurant which has recently opened as a permanent addition to the Grove’s dining offerings, having been a temporary pop-up last year.

The walk into the restaurant gives you a hint of what is to come, with a dark coloured up-lit door leading to a foyer manned by the most exquisitely dressed front of house staff. The female staff had the most gorgeous black and mesh dresses, I almost had to stop myself asking for a job there just so I could get my hands on one!

A funky Ibiza vibe is introduced with the music played, which helps set the scene and give you a feeling you are going to have a great time even before you’ve tried any of the food.

The new décor is super stylish and modern. Inspired by Lodhi Gardens in New Delhi, the furnishings and bespoke murals feature elements of nature and history whilst the cutlery and glass wear are very cool and contemporary.

We had the five-course tasting menu which comes in at £65 per person which I feel, although it’s on the pricey side, is definitely good value as the meal is very much an experience. For an extra treat I’d definitely recommend adding the drink pairing option.

The tasting menu offered a wonderful selection of Indian favourites, featuring the most spectacular poppadum selection I’ve seen, a fish course of scallop, prawn and salmon, a delicate trio of perfectly seasoned and cooked meats, a Thali dish that is literally good enough for a king, having been served to King Charles at a event at Windsor Castle catered by Madhu’s and finally, a wonderfully sweet Indian desert trio.

The attention to detail given to the menu itself, ingredients and the presentation is clear. Cameras were snapping constantly with impressed diners keen to capture their dishes for the gram.

The staff are attentive, but not overly so, there is no feeling of being rushed, the atmosphere is buzzy and the food is delicious. This is a destination restaurant that should definitely be on your radar.