Iconic Indian restaurant Dishoom pays homage to the Irani cafés and the food of all Bombay.

Price range: ££ - £££

I'm usually one of those people that tries to avoid 'chain' restaurants when I can (other than a hungover Nando's) because I feel overwhelmed by the incredible wealth of choice in London and feel as though I am wasting the opportunity to discover somewhere new. 

Dishoom feels like the exception that that -- after all, a chain is a sign of popularity which usually lands for good reason and so I've been back several times for breakfast and dinner. The food is a delicious 'homage to Irani cafés', with highlights like the chicken ruby, black daal and the iconic house chai. The decor, with its vintage posters, rich colours and moody lighting creates a cozy atmosphere, perfect for whether you're there for a casual meal or a lively evening out.

Note -- there is often a bit of a queue to get into Dishoom (experienced this at both King's Cross and Shoreditch) but they make it worth your while with Chai lattees for the wait!

My favourite's on the menu:

BREAKFAST:

SAUSAGE AND EGG NAAN ROLL, Each naan is freshly baked – by hand, and to order – in the tandoor. It is then graced with a little cream cheese, tomato-chilli jam and fresh coriander leaves. -- £11.20

HOUSE CHAI, warming comfort and satisfying spice. Made the traditional way, or with oat milk. All who have tried it, swear by it. -- £4.20 (bottomless!!)

GRILLS: 

PANEER TIKKA, A cheese with a soft and forgiving nature that picks up flavours wonderfully. Marinated with pickling spices and yoghurt then gently charred with peppers. (V) -- £12.20

GUNPOWDER POTATOES, The seduction is in the tumble. New potatoes are smoky-grilled, broken apart, tossed with butter, crushed aromatic seeds and green herbs. (V) -- £9.50

RUBY MURRAY: 

HOUSE BLACK DAAL, A Dishoom signature dish – dark, rich, deeply flavoured. It is cooked over 24 hours for extra harmony. (V) -- £9.50

CHICKEN RUBY, Tender chicken in a rich, silky makhani sauce. A good and proper curry redolent with spice and flavour. -- £15.90

RICE & SIDE DISHES: 

RAITA, Delicate minty yoghurt, cool as a cucumber. (V) -- £4.50

ROOMALI ROTI, Soft handkerchief-thin bread, thrown, stretched and griddled to order on an upturned tawa. (V) -- £4.50

📍5 Stable Street, King's Cross, London N1C 4AB

🔗 www.dishoom.com