Punjab Restaurant
Restaurant | London | England | United Kingdom
Authentic Punjabi cuisine in London
The "Punjab Restaurant" in London, England, is a historic establishment that prides itself on being the oldest North Indian restaurant in Britain, bringing authentic Punjabi cuisine to the capital since 1946. Founded by Gurbachan Singh Maan, an immigrant from Punjab, it began as a community hub for Indian students and diplomats and has evolved over the decades into a staple of London’s dining scene. Today, it is run by the fourth generation of the Maan family, who preserve the original values and recipes while adapting the restaurant to modern times. The atmosphere is a blend of nostalgic charm and vibrant energy, characterized by walls adorned with black-and-white photos that tell the story of the family and the British Punjabi community.
Oldest North Indian restaurant in UK
The cuisine at Punjab Restaurant is deeply rooted in the traditions of Punjab, focusing on fresh, high-quality ingredients that highlight the flavors of North India. A standout dish is the "Acharri Gosht," a spicy lamb curry with marinated meat, offering a unique taste through its complex blend of spices—an experience that captures the essence of Punjabi culinary art. Equally popular is the "Butter Chicken," which, with its creamy tomato sauce and tender chicken, provides a milder yet equally delicious contrast. Side dishes like the "Garlic Naan"—fresh from the tandoor, with a crispy crust and a hint of garlic—perfectly complement the main courses. For vegetarians, the "Tarka Daal" stands out, a lentil dish enhanced with aromatic spiced butter that showcases the versatility of plant-based cuisine.
Traditional Indian dishes to enjoy
The restaurant places great emphasis on authenticity, using recipes that have been refined over generations, with many dishes still following the original methods of Gurbachan Singh. The food is often served in a style that encourages sharing, reinforcing the familial atmosphere. The drink menu offers suitable accompaniments, including traditional Indian lassis in sweet or salty varieties that balance the spicy flavors of the dishes. For a sweet finale, classics like "Gulab Jamun," soft dough balls in sugar syrup, delight with their velvety texture and hint of rosewater.
Historic restaurant with family history
Service at Punjab Restaurant is friendly and efficient, with staff often praised for their warmth and helpfulness. The open kitchen allows guests to glimpse the cooking process, which enhances trust in the freshness and care of the dishes. The restaurant primarily operates on a walk-in basis, underscoring its spontaneous, accessible nature, although there can be wait times on busy evenings—especially between 7 and 9 PM. The décor is functional but with a touch of nostalgia, and the historical significance of the place is accentuated by numerous artifacts on the walls, including old family photos and memorabilia from British-Indian history.
