A Legacy of Bold Flavors Crosses the Atlantic (Image Credits: Unsplash)
Las Vegas Strip – The celebrated Gymkhana restaurant from London debuted its first U.S. outpost at ARIA Resort & Casino in December 2025, bringing upscale Indian cuisine to Nevada’s bustling entertainment hub.[1][2]
A Legacy of Bold Flavors Crosses the Atlantic
Gymkhana earned two Michelin stars in London for its take on classic Indian dishes, drawing from northern influences with touches from the south and west. The JKS Restaurants group, founded by siblings Karam, Jyotin, and Sunaina Sethi, operates the venue alongside nearly 30 other spots worldwide.[1] Chefs preserved the original’s reputation for rich, layered spicing and tandoor-grilled specialties.
Visitors entered through signature forest green doors into a space redesigned by U.K. studio North End. The former Julian Serrano Tapas room transformed into a wood-paneled dining area evoking a private members’ club, complete with floral mirrors, paisley carpets, and chili-hued ceilings.[1] A lounge bar and intimate 42 Bar added to the luxurious vibe.
Standout Dishes from Tandoor to Biryani
The menu emphasized sharing plates, with London favorites like tandoori masala lamb chops, venison biryani served with pomegranate and mint raita, and butter chicken slow-cooked with fenugreek. Diners praised the chops for their tangy walnut chutney that balanced the marinade’s heat.[3][1]
Vegas exclusives included wagyu keema naan stuffed with spiced mince and paired with raita, plus beef short rib pepper fry in coconut and South Indian spices. Other highlights featured lasooni tiger prawns, Goan lobster curry, black lentil dal, and chaat-style starters like aloo chaat.[2][3] A $165 tasting menu offered a curated progression.
- Tandoori masala lamb chops with walnut chutney
- Wagyu keema naan
- Beef short rib pepper fry
- Venison biryani
- Black lentil dal
- Butter chicken
Cocktails and a Fixed Spice Profile
The bar showcased Indian-inspired drinks, such as the Pina Col-Lassi with clarified coconut and pineapple puree, alongside tableside punches and a spicy mezcal margarita. Non-alcoholic options like mango lassi complemented the meal.[1][3]
Spice levels remained unadjusted, delivering bold heat true to tradition. This approach thrilled spice enthusiasts but challenged others, as noted in early feedback.[3]
| Dish Category | Examples |
|---|---|
| Tandoor & Kebabs | Lamb chops, tiger prawns |
| Curries & Biryanis | Butter chicken, venison biryani |
| Vegas Exclusives | Wagyu naan, short rib pepper fry |
Early Buzz and Dining Realities
Since opening on December 3, Gymkhana drew crowds with reservations filling quickly via SevenRooms or ARIA concierge.[1] Hours run Sunday through Thursday until 10 p.m., extending to 10:30 p.m. on weekends.[4]
Reviews highlighted exceptional food quality, from fluffy naan to creamy dals, though some cited overwhelming spice and service hiccups amid high demand. The venue positioned itself as a top destination for elevated Indian fare on the Strip.[3]
Key Takeaways
- Bold, uncompromised spices define the experience.
- London signatures meet Vegas twists like wagyu naan.
- Book ahead for this high-demand spot.
Gymkhana solidified Indian fine dining’s foothold in Las Vegas, blending colonial-club elegance with rip-roaring flavors. Reservations remain essential for tasting this transatlantic triumph. What do you think about it? Tell us in the comments.
