Atul Kochhar, the Chef/Patron of Benares is one of the most critically acclaimed chefs in Britain; he was the first ever Indian chef to win a coveted Michelin Star and has received numerous awards and accolades during his career.

He has been instrumental in changing the perception of Indian food in Britain with his boldly flavoured contemporary cooking; this is strongly reflected in the menu at Benares, which demonstrates Atul's extensive research as it incorporates dishes from all parts of India.

Benares has achieved quite some distinction in the short time that it has been open; it was nominated as Best Indian Restaurant at the Hotel and Restaurant Magazine Awards in 2003, as well as best designed restaurant by FX magazine.

It is named after the spiritual city of Benares in Northern India, and Atul has taken great efforts to translate that reverberating beauty and vibrancy into his restaurant. Hand crafted Indian furniture and water pools scattered throughout help in imbuing a sense of mysticism that is revered as much as it is admired.