Whitechapel, Indian Restaurant Guide

“You’re hard-pressed to spend more than 30-odd pounds per head, and the lamb chops are legendary” at this long-running Punjabi institution in Whitechapel, whose BYOB policy helps the wallet (“still the best value among all restaurants – not just South Asian – in London”). And it’s not just about the “filthy-good grilled meats” – “the aubergine and other vegetarian dishes really shine”. It does get “too busy”, though, and even some fans feel “you do now get hustled in and out” – so “don’t expect good service and you won’t be disappointed”.

2022 Review: East London’s oldest Indian (established 1939 in Whitechapel) briefly found fame in late August 2020, when it was reviewed by Marina O’Loughlin for The Sunday Times. Run by four generations of the same family – and with somewhat antediluvian decor – it’s not the place to uncover the latest in food fads; or as Marina eloquently put it: “it tastes like the past, deliciously”. Reports please!

Harneet Baweja’s 10-year-old Indian street-food outfit “just gets better and better”, with “innovative, authentic and well-spiced sharing plates” and “warm service”. The Spitalfields branch is “the original and best”; while the Soho and Tower Bridge follow-ups also win praise. Top Tip – look out for the ‘India Club’ events: one-off celebrations of a particular city, region or festival.

“A real staple of the East End curry fraternity” – this legendary no-frills Pakistani canteen is now in its fourth decade and “always a joy” – “the place keeps getting bigger but the food is always spot-on” with “authentic and ultra-tasty dishes” that “never fail”. Top Tip – “don’t forget to bring your own bottle!”.