Archway, Indian Restaurant Guide

“So different – Jay Rayner was right, it’s an amazing place” – The Observer critic’s February 2025 review of this converted pub on a residential street near Archway (fka The Prince Alfred) put it on London’s culinary map and many reports in our diners’ poll reference his write up. “OK, so we went on Mr Rayner’s recommendation, but the food really was very good” and its “proudly advertised gastropub ambitions are successful”. Chef Jolly of MasterChef India provides a “distinctive menu” of “unusual dishes” that “avoid Indian restaurant clichés”. The ambience follows the gastropub strap line, with tables squeezed together, but its decor is a cut above most pubs while service is “friendly and efficient” (although one or two reports suggest “it can be a victim of its own success thanks to Jay”). Top Menu Tips – “smoked poppadums are an excellent start to the meal as are the lamb roti tacos. The cocktail menu is well worth a look as well”.