How does Indian flair meld with British classics to spark new culinary delights?

Named "Sepoy," a term in Indian referring to soldiers, the restaurant "Sepoy Mess" boasts a unique style, adorned with rifles on its walls. Fear not, they are mere replicas (chuckles), yet visually striking, steeped in a playful charm.

"Sepoy Mess" draws inspiration from the colonial era of British India when the British Indian Army messes (military dining halls, termed "Mess" in India) catered to both Indian and British soldiers, cooking with Indian ingredients and spices while significantly reducing the heat levels and incorporating British flavors. This led to the creation of dishes that catered to everyone's palate, resulting in a distinct British-Indian cuisine shaped by the times.

The walls of the restaurant are adorned with authentic photographs of the British Indian Army from that era, generously provided by the Indian Museum. Being in Hong Kong allows one to not only savor the flavors but also experience the ambiance of those military times, making it a truly unique experience.

This appetizer mix the Indian classic Tikka with European Arancini. Tikka, a blend of spices and cheese beloved by Indians, meets Arancini, traditionally made by shaping and deep-frying Italian rice into balls. The Arancini Tikka Chaat at "Sepoy Mess" deviates from tradition by becoming crispy potato balls. The filling is rich in Indian flavors, featuring creamy mozzarella, chickpea masala, tamarind chutney, and mint sauce. The explosion of both cuisines in your mouth is incredibly satisfying.

The soul of this salad is the common Indian mint sauce, blending ripe tomatoes, cucumbers, and Indian onions with fresh coriander. Refreshingly spicy, the layers of Indian ingredients make it much lighter on the palate.

At "Sepoy Mess," where Indian and English cuisines intertwine, it's only natural to find wraps and burgers. Many may find it their first time having a burger at an Indian restaurant, and the surprise lies in the chicken patty. Marinated with spices, the subtle flavors seep out slowly, complemented by familiar tomatoes, onions, and cheddar cheese. While the texture is that of a burger, the taste gives off a uniquely Indian feel.

Tacos, commonly found in Europe and America, are filled with flavorful minced lamb here, combined with traditional spices, tomatoes, and fresh herbs for a refreshing mouthfeel. The generous portion of lamb ensures each bite bursts with succulent meat juices.

Many skewers here are marinated with Indian spices, offering a taste distinct from typical skewers. The beef tenderloin skewers are further enhanced with mustard oil, ginger, and garlic, emitting a delightful fragrance even before tasting.

Few may have tried Afghan lamb ribs, slow-cooked for 24 hours in aromatic Indian spices, coriander, ginger, and garlic. The meat is tender, ready to be devoured in a single bite. Despite the array of spices, the flavors are not overpowering, evoking a subtle exotic taste.

If the lamb ribs didn't satisfy your meat cravings, this lamb shank surely will! The lamb shank is pre-soaked in a sauce from the Kashmir region of India, rich in spices and dairy, leaning towards a rich milky flavor. Finished with a hint of sweet and spicy fennel seeds, the unique aroma is truly worth a try.

When it comes to the signature dishes here, the Royal Hyderabadi Biryani is a must-mention. Inspired by the long-standing tradition of Hyderabad in India, this dish is infused with saffron to highlight its aroma, allowing diners to experience the local culture through their taste buds.

The Royal Hyderabadi Biryani is available in lamb ($238), vegetable ($178), and duck ($248) options. The lamb is simmered with bones to enhance the flavor, while the duck is slow-cooked with onions and tomatoes for a milder taste.

Sticky toffee pudding is a British dessert, elegantly plated with a touch of English sophistication. Here, it is drizzled with coffee on the spot, balancing sweetness with bitterness, exuding a luxurious and understated feel.

Website: https://s.openrice.com/QrbS0NtSD00~dYKKSilyW

Address: Shop R008, 3/F, ELEMENTS, 1 Austin Road West, Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong

Phone: 23300316