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Dishoom: Our Favourite Indian Food in London

Writer's picture: ThingsToPackThingsToPack

Expanding each section to enhance the depth of the narrative and provide a richer understanding of Dishoom Covent Garden, the blog post evolves into a more detailed guide that immerses readers in the experience of dining at this iconic London restaurant.


Restaurant: Indian, Asian Dining Style: Elegant Price Range: £15 – £30 Credit Cards: Visa, MC, Amex, Maestro


Dishoom Covent Garden stands as a beacon of Indian cuisine in the bustling heart of London, drawing inspiration from the historic Irani cafés of Bombay. This restaurant is more than just a place to eat; it’s a cultural journey that offers a slice of Indian heritage to its visitors. As part of the celebrated Dishoom chain, the Covent Garden location holds a special place in the hearts of food lovers, combining the charm of the past with the vibrancy of the present to create an unforgettable dining experience. With its commitment to authenticity and innovation, Dishoom provides a window into the soul of Indian culinary traditions, inviting diners from all walks of life to explore the rich flavors and stories of India.


sliced tomato on white ceramic plate

Ambiance and Decor

Upon entering Dishoom Covent Garden, guests are enveloped in an ambiance that meticulously recreates the spirit of Bombay’s cherished cafés. The décor is a thoughtful blend of nostalgia and modernity, featuring vintage touches that pay homage to the golden era of the 1960s. From the art-adorned walls to the cozy seating arrangements, every detail contributes to a warm, inviting atmosphere that encourages conviviality and leisurely dining. The energy of the space is palpable, a vibrant hum that reflects the lively essence of Bombay itself. This carefully curated environment not only sets the stage for a remarkable meal but also fosters connections among diners, making each visit a memorable occasion.


Culinary Delights

The culinary offerings at Dishoom Covent Garden are a testament to the diversity and depth of Indian cuisine. The menu is a carefully crafted mosaic of flavors, each dish representing a different region or tradition of India. The Chicken Ruby, a house specialty, is an exquisite example of how classic ingredients can be transformed into a dish that is both comforting and exotic. Its rich sauce, infused with spices and herbs, envelops the tender chicken, creating a harmony of flavors that is both bold and nuanced. The House Black Daal, another highlight, is a marvel of culinary patience and skill. Its 24-hour cooking process results in a dish that is profoundly flavorful, with a texture that is both creamy and complex. The Mango Kulfi, with its smooth, luscious texture and vibrant mango essence, offers a refreshing contrast to the spicy notes of the meal, serving as a sweet reminder of India’s tropical bounty.


cooked food on white ceramic plate

Service and Experience

At Dishoom Covent Garden, the dining experience is elevated by the attentive and knowledgeable service. The staff are not merely attendants; they are storytellers and guides, eager to share the history and nuances of the dishes they serve. Their recommendations are tailored to individual tastes and dietary preferences, ensuring that every guest’s experience is personalized and satisfying. The selection of drinks, including signature cocktails and traditional beverages, complements the meal perfectly, adding an extra layer of indulgence to the dining experience. Whether it’s a casual dinner or a special celebration, the team at Dishoom goes above and beyond to create an atmosphere of hospitality and joy that is reflective of India’s rich cultural heritage.


Unique Breakfast Offerings

The breakfast menu at Dishoom Covent Garden is a delightful fusion of Indian culinary tradition and British breakfast classics. This innovative offering allows diners to start their day with flavors that are both familiar and exotic. From the spicy Akuri, a Parsi-style scrambled egg dish, to the Bombay Omelette, each breakfast item is prepared with care and served with a side of freshly baked breads or pav. The menu also features a variety of chai options, from the traditional Masala Chai to the more adventurous Chocolate Chai, each providing a warm, comforting start to the day. This unique breakfast experience is designed to cater to a diverse clientele, ensuring that whether you’re in the mood for a hearty meal or a light, flavorful start to your day, Dishoom has something special to offer.


Our experience

Our culinary voyage began with a burst of tropical freshness and a hint of bold adventure, thanks to the Passionfruit Sharbat with a splash of vodka. It was more than a drink; it was an invigorating start that promised excitement with every sip, delivering a delightful kick that awakened our senses. It was followed by the Dishoom India Pale Ale, a testament to the restaurant’s dedication to offering authentic experiences, not just through its food but also through its carefully curated selection of drinks. The ale was a perfect companion to our meal, embodying the spirit of India with a crafty London twist.


The Paneer Tikka was a revelation in taste and texture. The paneer, with its soft yet structured form, served as the perfect canvas for the rich marinade of herbs it was bathed in. Accompanied by fresh peppers, it was a dish that married simplicity with complexity in each bite.


a plate of food

A special highlight from Dishoom Carnaby’s menu was the Salli Boti. This dish was a celebration of flavors, featuring braised lamb that was tender, rich, and deeply satisfying. It was clear why this was among the specials; it was a culinary masterpiece that left a lasting impression.


The House Black Daal, a signature staple, stood out for its comforting warmth and depth. This spiced lentil stew, simmered to perfection, became the soul of our meal, perfect for savoring on its own or as a companion to naan for an enriching experience.

Our journey continued with the Chicken Berry Britannia, a dish that was as regal in presentation as it was in taste. The combination of spices, cranberries, and tender chicken, all cooked and served in a pot, was a feast for the senses, brimming with flavors that were both bold and nuanced.


However, the crown jewel of our dining experience was undeniably the Chicken Ruby. This dish, akin to the beloved butter chicken but with a twist that elevated it to new heights, featured tender chicken enveloped in a rich red makhani sauce. It was so remarkable that on our second visit, we ordered two servings, ensuring we could relive the culinary delight the next day.


No Indian meal is complete without Raita, and Dishoom’s rendition was a refreshing blend of yogurt, cucumber, and onion, offering a cool respite from the spice, making it an indispensable part of our feast.

The essentials of Plain & Garlic Naan alongside Steamed Basmati Rice were indispensable, acting as the perfect vehicles to enjoy the complexity of flavors Dishoom so masterfully presents.

round brown and white ceramic pot with food

Concluding our meal, the complimentary Pistachio Popsicles were a stroke of genius. Their creamy texture and subtly sweet flavor provided a soothing finale to our lavish meal, a thoughtful gesture that encapsulated the care Dishoom invests in every aspect of the dining experience.


Overflowing with joy and delicious leftovers that promised another round of culinary delight, we left Dishoom with grateful hearts and satisfied appetites. This was not just a meal; it was a celebration, a journey through flavors that we were not ready to end. Indeed, it stands out as one of the most memorable dining experiences we’ve ever had, a testament to Dishoom’s unparalleled ability to enchant and satisfy.


Conclusion

Dishoom Covent Garden is more than just a restaurant; it’s a vibrant celebration of Indian culture, cuisine, and hospitality. With its richly flavored dishes, inviting ambiance, and attentive service


Locations Around London

There are actually 8 Dishoom locations around the UK, but specifically 5 in London:

London Dishoom Locations:

  • Shoreditch

  • Covent Garden

  • King’s Cross

  • Carnaby

  • Kensington


Other UK Dishoom Locations:

  • Birmingham, England

  • Manchester, England

  • Edinburgh. Scotland


Whichever one you choose to go to – make a reservation a few days (or weeks) in advance just to secure a spot!

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