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It looks like Tamarind of London in Newport Beach has closed, bringing to conclusion an experiment in upscale Indian food in Southern California. The brand, which is based out of the UK (where it enjoys a large following and a Michelin star) seems to never have truly caught on with the Southern California community, abruptly pulling the plug over the weekend.
As the OC Register notes, Tamarind had been given plenty of love early on when it debuted at the Crystal Cove Promenade in 2011, thanks in part to the Michelin star, across-the-pond buzz, and a massive opening party. However, a rotating series of staff changes and an American unfamiliarity with high-end Indian food began dragging the place down not long after.
Still it’s a surprisingly swift shutter for the high-minded spot, which had earned a slight boost in 2013 following Jonathan Gold’s proclamation that the restaurant may well be the best Indian option in all of Southern California. No word from ownership on the shutter, but for now the gleaming location will remain dark.
