London’s streets are filled with South Asian restaurants and businesses that celebrate a rich cultural heritage.
As I stand on the cobblestone streets ofLondonat 24 , freshly minted law level in deal , I found myself in a city far more vivacious and various than the quaint , Hugh Grant - populate version I ’d meet depict in movies likeNotting Hill . London , I quickly come upon , was not only a backdrop for magic British tale , but a animation , take a breather mosaic of civilisation , with big South Asiatic influences .
As a New York City indigene , I was no stranger to ethnical diversity . Yet , even on the bustle about street of Manhattan I had often grappled with the duality of my Amerindic - American identity .
Fast forward to February , 2023 , and I plant myself embarking on a new chapter of life in London . Since then , this metropolis has transmute from a temporary destination into my home , give me the chance to dig deep into the cultural , culinary , and social tapestry that now imprint an integral part of my identity . While this guide is not thoroughgoing , it get to provide a glance into the rich South Asiatic story that flows through London ’s street , businesses , and communities .
Design by Manali Doshi for Thrillist
Getting to know South Asian London
To truly treasure London ’s South Asiatic influence , it ’s helpful to look back to 1947 , the year the sectionalisation of India and the independency of former British settlement set in move a series of migration wave that would forever vary London ’s demographic landscape painting .
The 1950s and 1960s saw the arrival of the first significant wave of South Asian immigrant . In the aftermath of World War II , Britain found itself grapple with severe labor movement shortfall . This vacuum drew many South Asians , peculiarly from India and Pakistan , who get to fill up crucial role in rebuilding the nation ’s infrastructure and economy . These early settler laid the initiation for the vivacious communities that would follow .
The 1970s show in another meaning inflow of South Asiatic immigrants , this meter predominantly of Indian line of descent , arriving from East Africa , like my own mother - in - law . Political upheaval , epitomized by the actions of leader like Uganda ’s Idi Amin , led to the projection of many South Asians from their adopted East African homes . This moving ridge of migration bring with it a unique portmanteau word of ethnic influence with distinctive culinary traditions and linguistic nuances .
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From the 1980s to the present day , migration design go forward to evolve . The more late arrivals in London admit a various mix of professionals , student , and families from across South Asia . These individuals have come seek opportunities in educational activity , vocation promotion , and the hope of a cosmopolitan lifestyle that London so enticingly offer .
South Asian neighborhoods in London
As these wave of immigrants get , they gradually settled into various pocket of London . The geographics of the metropolis today reflects these settlement patterns , with distinct areas becoming synonymous with specific South Asian communities .
In West London , the bustling neighborhood of Southall and Hounslow have become strongholds of Punjabi finish . Here , the air is redolent with the aroma of sizzle samosas and the rhythmical beatnik of Bhangra euphony . The street are embellish with colourful sari store , and the gurdwaras stand as majestic religious centrepiece of the biotic community . On many weekends , I have taken the Elizabeth short letter to Southall and eat to my heart ’s content , trying dishes from chole puri to jalebis , and lap them down with cold mango lassi .
Venture slightly north to Wembley and Kenton , and you ’ll find yourself in the heart of London ’s Gujarati community . These areas seethe with the energy of thriving businesses , from rhombus merchants to tech startups , all infused with entrepreneurial spirit .
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East London , particularly the iconic Brick Lane , has become synonymous with the Bangladeshi community . Often referred to as “ Banglatown , ” this area has transform from its diachronic roots as a hub for Jewish and Huguenot immigrants to become a solemnization of Bengali cultivation . The street art , the aroma of spice wafting from countless curry house , and the vibrant festivals all speak to the area ’s productive ethnic heritage .
South Asian museums, art, and culture in London
The Bhavan UK
4A Castletown Rd . Nestled in the heart of West Kensington , the Bhavan UKstands as a testament to the live appeal of Hellenic Indian artistic production and culture . Established in 1972 and impress to its current placement in 1978 , the Bhavan has the trenchant honor of being the only organization in the UK to extend such a divers array of traditional Indian ethnical activities under one roof . visitant will witness ongoing exhibitions , talks , workshops , and screenings that are contrive to educate an intergenerational audience about the impacts of South Asian arts and civilisation in London .
South Asian Gallery at the Victoria and Albert Museum
Cromwell Rd . A must - see for those seeking a more comprehensive overview of South Asiatic art and artifact , the South Asian Gallery at the Victoria and Albert Museum offers up an awe - revolutionize collection of nearly 60,000 objects , include approximately 10,000 textiles and 6,000 paintings . As a fashion buff , I am partial to the plane section showcasing jades and jewelry , which really demonstrate the juxtaposition of ancient artifacts and modern creations . The Victoria and Albert Museum is neither South Asian - own nor operated , but the South Asian Gallery is put together by elderly conservator Divia Patel .
Ad Lib Gallery
10 Church Rd . For those interested in contemporary South Asiatic art , theAd Lib Galleryin Wimbledon offers a more sexual and focused experience . This gallery has gained recognition for its commitment to showcasing South Asian women artists , who have historically been underrepresented in the fine art humanity . One such artist isNikita Mohindra , whose art is a powerful exploration of personal battle , healing , and ghostly connexion . I see her art at an auction she did to raise monetary fund for Crab research in the UK and was blown away by the pick of colors , texture , and emotions her body of work emote . Mohindra ’s work has also been featured on prominent billboards in London ’s Pimlico station , so keep an eye out while ride the vacuum tube .
South Asian-owned businesses you can’t miss in London
Kastur Jewels
14 Bulstrode St. Kastur Jewels , ground in 2010 by the seer Rajvi Vora , unveiled its recherche Marylebone storefront in 2020 . This wizardly boutique showcases dazzling adornment inspired by the opulent esthetic of 15th C Mughal India through to the priggish era . “ We employ time - honored technique such as Kundan , Partash , Enamel ( Meena ) , and Thewa , ” explain Vora . “ Our latest creations center around former mine cut diamond , but our pieces opt for a timeless allure while still allowing for present-day wear . ”
Sonas Haute Couture
48 Ealing Rd . call for to an Indian nuptials but not sure what to fall apart ? Stop bySonas Haute Couturein Wembley to peck out a lehenga , sari , or sherwani for the next celebration . The faculty are all friendly and will ensure you sense your best in whatever garments you choose . This lieu have got a personal connection to me — after all , my hubby find his Native American bridegroom ’s outfit here and I found matching jewelry for our wedding daylight !
Shalimar Books
38 Kennington Ln . Upon enteringShalimar Books , a venerable validation nest in the sum of South London since 1973 , patrons are enwrap in a tapestry of vivacious hue , intricate embroideries , and sumptuous material . As London ’s sole South Asian literary specializer , Shalimar ’s longstanding partnerships with Indian publishers and distributors yield an unparalleled choice of tome sweep an raiment of subject field . To me , there is nothing more satisfying than perusing the aisle , sip chai , and learning historical tidbits about Sri Lanka , Nepal , and the greater subcontinent .
BollyCo Dance
7 Langley St. BollyCo Dance , a premier Central London saltation ship’s company , offers an all-inclusive range of class cater to all skill levels , from novices to seasoned performers . Its diverse curriculum extends beyond traditionalBollywooddance , encompassing semi - classic Amerindic dance , bhangra , and Bollywood - fusion . For London newcomers like me , dancing and sweating with others is a big manner to smithy friendly relationship . Plus , you may get some praxis in for the annualLondon Melawhich offers a receptive banquet of music , terpsichore , and culinary delights each class .
Dimple Amani Spa
42 Vauxhall Bridge Rd . Venture deeper into London to visitDimple Amani Spa , which offer a unique portmanteau word of ancient Ayurvedic wisdom and New health practices . The watering hole ’s namesake founder , Dimple Amani , draw divine guidance from her rich cultural inheritance and personal experience with Ayurveda . As a child , Amani ’s grandmother would turn to Ayurvedic rituals to direct various health , hair , and pelt issues . The effectiveness of these traditional remedies entrust a live impression on her ; as a result , these philosophies are at the gist of every discourse . Guests can featherbed in rejuvenate lymphatic drainage sessions , relax foot massage , and buccal sculpts . When I visited , I opted for a specialised antepartum treatment that helped to alleviate some ache and pains and offered much - call for relaxation .
Where to eat and drink in London
Darjeeling Express
Chettinad Restaurant
Kolamba East
12 Blossom St. create by Eroshan and Aushi Meewella , Kolamba Eastis the founders ’ 2d London eating place , an eastbound enlargement of successful Soho ventureKolamba . This newer restaurant showcases a modern interpretation of Sri Lankan home preparation , with a menu that serves as a tribute to the founders ' puerility memories . Menu items foreground the culinary diversity of Sri Lanka : Think lentil dhal with spinach , broccoli mallung ( a medley of diced Brassica oleracea italica , onion and grated coconut in a calx dressing ) , and payasam , a cinnamon and raisin - stud Sir Tim Rice pud hailing from northerly Sri Lanka .
The Regency Club
19 - 21 Queensbury Station ParadeAmidst the bustle about Native American restaurant scene in and around London , the Regency Clubstands out for its intriguing cross - ethnical fusion of Kenyan and Indian flavors . spread out by Navin Sharma , an comptroller by trade , the restaurant is perpetrate to showcasing flavors in every ravisher . Its chef marinate their meat and poultry for a full 24 hours before cookery , blend clear-cut spice discover in both East Africa and the subcontinent and put on cooking proficiency that are representative of both culinary traditions . The intimate ambience also makes the Regency Club a post where guests can gather to enjoy live sports , let in cricket , football game , and rugby .
Pahli Hill Bandra Bhai
79 - 81 Mortimer St. Tucked aside in the gist of Fitzrovia , Pahli Hill Bandra Bhaiis a unique restaurant and cocktail bar that pay court to the vivacious and illicit world of Indian smuggling during the pre - liberalization era . In the decades before the early 90s , India ’s closed economy lead to a thriving black market , where a net of moon curser facilitated memory access to intoxicant and other banned goods . When you mistreat into the dimly lit , retro - inspired space , you finger like you are back in that epoch ; the ginmill is full of trinkets , gaudy graphics , and velvet upholstery that evokes a bygone time . Each drink devote tribute to the daring exploits of the runner . I always order the Mango , a delicious mixture made with Desi Daru mango vodka , mango liqueur , mango succus , sugar , and Greek yogurt . No visit is concluded without some bar snacks , like the spiced papri , Mangalore bun , and Cancer sukkha .
Fauji Clubhouse
Notting Hill ( exact address uncommitted after confirmed reservation)When I first moved to London , I tried to make friends through Bumble BFF and workout classes ; though helpful , I quickly realized that the easiest way to foster a friendship was over a share making love for intellectual nourishment . On Instagram , I stumbled upon theFauji Club Housein Notting Hill . Hosted by friend duo Sid and Sri , the weekend socials allow citizenry to socialize in the solace of the laminitis ’s home , all while enjoying authentic Indian dishes and boozing . The computer menu are ever - commute , but include vegetarian and non - vegetarian peach , and are always publicized on Fauji Club House ’s social media page .
Jamavar
8 Mount St. Renowned restaurateur Samyukta Nair has one goal : to convey toothsome food to London ’s culinary scene . Though she owns other London staples , includingBombay Bustle , Mimi Mei Fair , Socca , and her latest brainchildKOYN Thai , Michelin - starredJamavarremains one of her democratic electric receptacle and a great billet for both vegetarian and non - vegetarian to indulge in a wide range of North and South Amerind dishes . Whether you ’re in the humour for a malvani prawn curry or lobster idli sambhar , there ’s something for every palate . My personal favorite is the kurkure Indian corn , made of crispy sweet maize kernel and sun dried tomatoes , which are doused in pine nuts and kokum salad dressing .
Horn OK Please
8 Southwark St. No London adventure is complete without a pilgrim’s journey to Borough Market . While there , do n’t escape the chance to snag those Instagram - worthy cocoa - cover strawberries or a novel glassful of freshly squeezed watermelon juice . But the literal gem you should seek out isHorn OK Please . This vivacious kiosk takes its name from a set phrase usually seen paint on the backs of vehicles across India . It ’s this racy spirit of Native American city street that inhale Gaurav and Sandhya to make their culinary harbor , which celebrates the near of Amerind vegetarian street food such as dosa chaat and egg kati rolls .
Vegetarian Brown Girls Supper Club
Northwest London ( accurate address uncommitted after confirmed reservation)Sudha Thanki and Priya Bowry , a mother - daughter distich , emcee a monthly Gujarati vegetarian supper club in London . Aptly branded “ Vegetarian Brown little girl , ” the supper lodge spotlights the often - overlooked Gujarati culinary art with a bend of East African influence from Sudha ’s puerility in Uganda . With just six stern uncommitted , you ’ll need to be quick to secure a situation . This supper club is n’t just about serving food — it ’s a fashion for Sudha to pass down cherished recipes to her girl and granddaughter , guarantee their house ’s food inheritance lives on . The couplet curates piquant smasher , with a unequalled tabular array setting for each supper cabaret to raise the experience . Whether you ’re an Amerind lack the flavors of home , a gourmet quick for something raw , or someone look to touch base with others over food , this supper clubhouse is for you . Book a reservationhereor email them for secret reservation for up to six people atvegetarianbrowngirls@gmail.com .
Chai Guys
Seven Dials marketplace , 45 Earlham St. and Old Spitalfields Market , 16 Horner Sq . When in London , a cupful of afternoon tea is essential , but it ’s good to embrace South Asian flair with a steaming fall guy of masala chai . Since 2019 , the Chai Guys have been serving authentic chai in Brick Lane . Founded by Gabriel , raise in New Delhi , and Abhilash , in the beginning from India , their recipes trance the kernel of traditional chaiwallahs back on the bustling streets of the homeland . Enjoy a simmering cup ofkarakchai with a serving of freshly baked pastry , and do n’t forget to bring a tin back with you as a souvenir !
South Asian-owned hotels in London
The Taj Hotel
54 Buckingham GateA differentiate South Asian - owned hotel graces central London . This elegant establishment , acquired by the Indian Hotels Company Ltd. ( Taj Hotels Resorts and Palaces ) in 1982 , boast a prime location simple steps from Buckingham Palace and St. James ' Park , with Westminster and Victoria Station within easy range . The hotel ’s four on - site restaurants , health center , and picturesque courtyard are complemented by architectural elements that pay court to its Indian heritage . The South Asiatic influences are discernible everywhere , but specially in theIndian Jasmine Afternoon Tea , a sheer reimagining of traditional good afternoon tea that celebrates the rich arras of Indian dining culture .
Did you know?
According to a news report , recent deliberation by the developerBarratt Londonshowed that South Asians own a greater amount of real demesne in the heart of London than any other group . It makes sense , then , that South Asian fashion and retail have found a prominent place in London . saunter down Green Street in East London or Southall Broadway , and you might just blank out which continent you ’re on . Even the grand gentlewoman of British retail , Harrods and Selfridges , will often carry South Asian - urge on style , especially during festival season like Diwali and Eid .
The Bhavan, London
Photo courtesy of Kastur Jewels
Shalimar Books
Dimple Amani
Photo by Lateef Photography, courtey of Pahli Hill
Photo by Anton Rodriguez, courtesy of Kolamba East
Photo courtesy of Pahli Hill Bandra Bhai
Jamavar London
Photo courtesy of Vegetarian Brown Girls Supper Club
St. James' Court, A Taj Hotel, London
