Our Story
A taste of Kerala. A celebration of South India.
Authentic South IndianCuisine & Lounge
Welcome to Vembanad, where the rich culinary heritage of South India meets contemporary hospitality in a warm and elegant setting.
Inspired by the beauty of Kerala’s Vembanad Lake and the traditions of its backwaters, Vembanad brings together authentic flavours, time-honoured recipes and carefully selected ingredients to create a dining experience that is both rooted in tradition and beautifully suited to the modern guest.
From aromatic curries and traditional Kerala specialities to South Indian classics and indulgent chef creations, every dish is prepared with respect for its origins and attention to detail.
Come for the food. Stay for the experience.
Authentic Flavours.Contemporary Hospitality.
At Vembanad, food is more than what is served on a plate. It is a connection to places, memories and traditions.
Our menu celebrates the diverse flavours of South India, with a special focus on the distinctive cuisine of Kerala. Rich spices, fresh ingredients and traditional cooking methods come together to create dishes that are full of character while remaining balanced and inviting.
Our lounge adds another dimension to the experience — a relaxed and sophisticated space where guests can enjoy great food, drinks and conversation.
A Culinary JourneyInspired By The Backwaters
The name Vembanad is inspired by Vembanad Lake, one of Kerala’s most beautiful and iconic waterways.
The lake, surrounded by villages, coconut palms and the famous Kerala backwaters, represents a way of life deeply connected with food, family and hospitality.
That spirit is at the heart of our restaurant.
We aim to bring a genuine taste of Kerala to the UK — not simply through recipes, but through the warmth, generosity and sense of welcome that are central to Kerala's food culture.
The Hands & HeartBehind Vembanad
Shyju Sebastian
Behind Vembanad is Shyju Sebastian, a hospitality professional with more than two decades of experience across India, Saudi Arabia and the United Kingdom.
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Foundation
Coimbatore, India
Shyju’s journey began with a B.Sc. in Catering Science and Hotel Management from S.N.R. Sons College, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, giving him a strong foundation in culinary preparation, hospitality operations, customer service and hotel management.
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Five-star kitchens
India
His early career included approximately two years working in leading five-star hotels in India, where he developed valuable experience in professional kitchen operations, food service, guest satisfaction and high hospitality standards.
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International experience
Saudi Arabia
He later moved to Saudi Arabia, working with the Al-Attas group of hotels and restaurants, gaining further international experience in busy hospitality environments and serving customers from diverse backgrounds.
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2005
United Kingdom
In 2005, Shyju moved to the United Kingdom, continuing his career across hotels and restaurants and building extensive experience in restaurant operations, food service, customer care, staff management and maintaining consistent quality standards.
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Today
Vembanad
Throughout his career, Shyju developed a deep appreciation for Kerala cuisine and its culinary traditions. His international hospitality experience has shaped his approach to bringing together authentic food, attentive service, a welcoming atmosphere and professional standards.
Joby Joseph
Joby Joseph holds a Bachelor's degree in Culinary Science from Bharathiar University, Tamil Nadu, India. He began his culinary career as a chef with Carnival Cruise Line, where he gained valuable international experience in high-volume, multicultural kitchen operations.
More ThanA Restaurant
Vembanad was created from Shyju’s long-standing passion for hospitality and his desire to introduce the authentic flavours and traditions of Kerala to guests in the UK.
Inspired by the beauty of Vembanad Lake and Kerala’s backwaters, his vision is to create more than a restaurant. It is a place where authentic flavours, traditional recipes, quality ingredients and modern hospitality come together.
With his extensive international hospitality experience and personal connection to Kerala’s food culture, Shyju is committed to making Vembanad a destination known for quality, authenticity, friendly service and memorable dining experiences.
"Vembanad is not just a restaurant; it is a celebration of Kerala's food, culture and hospitality."
Authenticity at theHeart of Everything We Do
At Vembanad, we believe authenticity is found in the details. From the ingredients we choose to the recipes we preserve, from the way our dishes are prepared to the way our guests are welcomed, every element reflects our respect for South Indian culinary heritage.
Authentic Sourcing
Ingredients chosen with respect for South Indian culinary heritage.
Time-Honoured Recipes
Traditional recipes preserved and prepared with attention to detail.
Warm Kerala Hospitality
The warmth, generosity and welcome central to Kerala's food culture.
Contemporary Experience
Traditional at heart. Contemporary in experience.
Come and ExperienceSouth India Differently
Step into Vembanad and discover the flavours, warmth and hospitality inspired by Kerala and the wider South Indian culinary tradition.