Press & Awards
Recognition from the critics and guides that matter
From 2 AA Rosettes within five months of opening to praise from some of Britain's most respected food critics, Koyal's rapid recognition in the dining world reflects the depth of experience Chef Nand Kishor Semwal brings to every plate. Below you will find our awards, critical reviews, and the key milestones in a career that spans three decades and two Michelin stars.
2 AA Rosettes for Culinary Excellence
2025 & 2026
Global Recognition Award
2025
TripAdvisor Travellers' Choice
2025
What the Critics Say
Reviews and features from leading publications
Digital Journal - Mae Cornes
December 2025
Profiled Chef Nand Kishor Semwal and Koyal for raising the bar for regional Indian cuisine in Surbiton - spotlighting the Himalayan ingredients, modern technique and his lineage from Trishna and Gymkhana.
Read the full review →Professional Lunch - Marshall Manson
May 2026
"The best Indian food I have ever experienced." Rated above Michelin-starred peers at roughly half the cost, with special praise for the wild boar vindaloo, Muntjac biryani and house-made breads.
Read the full review →Andy Hayler
2025
Praised across eight separate visits for consistent quality and refined technique.
Harden's Guide
2025
Recognised for exceptional Indian cuisine with sophisticated flavour combinations.
Cheese & Biscuits
2025
Highlighted the Himalayan ingredients and binchotan charcoal tandoor as genuinely distinctive.
Salty Plums
2025
Noted the seamless blend of fine dining technique with warm neighbourhood hospitality.
On Camera
Gary Eats names Koyal one of his top three reviewed restaurants
Watch the full review on Gary Eats' YouTube channel.
Our Journey
Key milestones from kitchen to restaurant
2012
Trishna receives Michelin star under Chef Nand Kishor
2013
Gymkhana awarded Michelin star
2014
Gymkhana named National Restaurant of the Year
2016
Dastaan Epsom opens, earns Michelin Bib Gourmand
2024
Koyal opens in Surbiton
2025
Koyal awarded 2 AA Rosettes for Culinary Excellence
2026
Koyal retains 2 AA Rosettes for a second consecutive year