Dishoom King's Cross
Restaurant | London | England | United Kingdom
The "Dishoom King's Cross" in London, England, is an outstanding restaurant that captures the nostalgic atmosphere of old Bombay cafes and delights with a modern interpretation of Indian cuisine. It is part of the successful Dishoom chain, founded in 2010 by brothers Shamil and Kavi Thakrar, which now operates several locations across the UK. The restaurant in King's Cross, opened in 2014, is the largest in the chain and is located in an impressive, restored Victorian warehouse that once served as a "Godown" - an Indian term for a warehouse - for the goods traffic between London and Bombay. It is situated in the revitalized area around King's Cross station and attracts both locals and tourists with its unique blend of history, culture, and cuisine.
The atmosphere at Dishoom King's Cross is incomparable and reflects the aesthetics of the Irani cafes founded by Zoroastrian immigrants from Iran in 1920s Bombay. The space spans three floors, with the open kitchen on the ground floor, a mezzanine area, and a hidden basement - the "Permit Room" - housing a speakeasy-style cocktail bar. The interior is thoughtfully designed: dark wood, brass accents, slowly rotating ceiling fans, and vintage photos on the walls create a warm, nostalgic atmosphere. Artworks and details highlighting the Indian independence movement - such as posters against the Simon Commission or portraits of activists like Sarojini Naidu - give the space a deeper historical dimension. The outdoor areas provide a relaxed option in the summer, while the bustling energy inside, often accompanied by long queues, underscores the popularity of the place.
Culinary-wise, Dishoom King's Cross focuses on Bombay comfort food with a strong Parsi influence, with all meat dishes being halal to appeal to a wide clientele. A standout dish is the House Black Daal, a velvety lentil dish cooked for over 24 hours to achieve a deep black color and a complex, rich flavor - a dish that is considered a signature dish and is often praised as unmatched. Equally popular is the Chicken Ruby, a buttery tender chicken in a spicy tomato butter sauce served with freshly baked naan, whose soft texture and light crispness perfectly complement the sauce. For a spicy kick, the Gunpowder Potatoes, small potatoes with a smoky spice mix, impress as a side dish or snack.
Breakfast is another highlight and attracts early risers, in particular. The Bacon Naan Roll - crispy bacon and chili tomato jam wrapped in warm naan - is a creative twist combining British and Indian flavors, while the Akuri Spicy Scrambled Eggs, a Parsi classic with spices and fresh herbs, is served with fluffy buns for an aromatic start to the day. The drinks are equally noteworthy: the House Chai, a traditional spiced tea, is refilled unlimited and is a must-have, while cocktails like the Paan Old Fashioned - inspired by the Indian betel leaf - are served in the Permit Room with a refined touch. For dessert, the Pineapple & Black Pepper Crumble, an unexpected combination of sweet pineapple and a hint of pepper served with cold vanilla ice cream, is a tempting choice.
Dishoom King's Cross places great emphasis on freshness and quality, sourcing ingredients from small producers to ensure authenticity. The concept of "sharing" is encouraged - many dishes are designed to be shared, making the dining experience a social one. There are also a variety of vegan and vegetarian options, such as the Chole Puri, a spicy chickpea curry with fried bread that convinces with its lightness and depth. Service is a hallmark: the staff is friendly, knowledgeable, and often willing to make recommendations or tell the stories behind the dishes, even though it can get busy during peak times. For waiting guests, there is complimentary chai outside, making the wait more enjoyable.
The restaurant is known for its long queues, especially in the evenings, as reservations are only available for groups of six or more - a sign of its cult status. The location in King's Cross, a neighborhood with excellent transportation links and close proximity to Granary Square, makes it ideal for a visit before or after a walk along Regent's Canal or a journey from St. Pancras. Dishoom also donates a meal to children in need for every meal served, adding a social dimension to the experience. Overall, Dishoom King's Cross is more than just a restaurant - it is a homage to Bombay, a place of community, and a culinary experience that uniquely combines history, taste, and hospitality. Here, one encounters the magic of India amidst London, wrapped in an atmosphere that nourishes both the stomach and the soul.
