Did you even dine in London if you didn’t go to Dishoom? Well, if you’re looking for great things to eat in the vicinity of Carnaby Street, then rest assured; the very first outpost of the now ubiquitous purveyors of Bombay-style comfort food was here.
For those not in the know, Dishoom is an enduringly popular and lovingly curated Indian restaurant serving classic Bombay dishes that, just like the 60s Bombay beat bands the location is inspired by, are sure to delight you with flavour and texture.
With a fun yet measured interior that boasts chequered-tile floors and bright leather seats, it mixes hippy-trail vibes with cues from the subcontinent’s familiar patterns and hues. Despite the restaurant chain growing to include eight other establishments in the UK, standards haven’t dropped – as so often is the case with expansion – and Dishoom Carnaby remains an ever dependable place to dine.
The Chef’s special in Carnaby is the Salli Boti, a tender curried lamb dish that is braised in a rich gravy and finished with salli crisp chips. A Parsi classic, this one is sure to open your mind to the distinct flavours of the ethnoreligious group.
Still hungry? You could also go with a medley of small plates that include Gujarati-style lamb samosas, the house chaat, or the Keema Pau, a minced lamb dish you’ll often find in the Irani cafes of Bombay, served in homemade buns.
If you’re in town for breakfast, then you can’t do better than Dishoom’s legendary bacon naan roll which involves crispy bacon, chilli jam, cream cheese and herbs, all encased in a freshly baked naan that’s been brushed in melted butter. It’s just the fuel you need before taking on the Carnaby’s shops.
Address: 22 Kingly St, Carnaby, London W1B 5QP
Website: dishoom.com