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London

Darjeeling Express is celebrated for its authentic Indian cuisine, vibrant atmosphere, and commitment to an all-female kitchen. Guests frequently praise the flavorful dishes, attentive service, and the unique dining experience that reflects Kolkata's culinary heritage.

Discover Darjeeling Express in Carnaby London

Nestled in the lively heart of Carnaby, London, Darjeeling Express offers an unforgettable dive into authentic Indian cuisine with a special focus on the rich flavors of Kolkata. This acclaimed family-owned eatery is a haven for foodies and cultural explorers alike, serving up refined dishes that celebrate tradition with a contemporary twist.

An authentic taste of Kolkata's culinary heritage

Darjeeling Express shines for its meticulous preparation and use of fresh, high-quality ingredients that bring out the best in Indian flavors. Whether indulging in the creamy butter chicken or sampling the fluffy naan, guests enjoy dishes that are perfectly spiced and evocative of home-cooked meals.

The restaurant’s all-female kitchen team adds an inspiring touch of authenticity and passion to every plate. Diners often mention the warm, attentive service and the cozy atmosphere, featuring soft lighting and gentle music that invite you to relax and savor every bite.

Guests rave about standout dishes like the paneer korma, slow-cooked goat curry, chicken momos, and the methi chicken — all delivering bold, memorable flavors. The Royal Thali, a set menu packed with a variety of delicacies including Kosha Mangsho and Prawn Malaikari, is a must-try for those wanting a comprehensive taste experience.

Complement your meal with an exquisite selection of Indian gins, cocktails like the Old Fashioned, or indulge in traditional drinks such as mango lassi and masala chai. The dessert options, including Bhapa Doi, offer a sweet conclusion to your visit.

Darjeeling Express welcomes groups and serves lunch, brunch, and dinner in a cheerful, inclusive setting. The restaurant is wheelchair accessible and accepts reservations, which are recommended due to its popularity. While outdoor seating is not available, the inviting indoor ambiance makes every meal special.

 Yes, pets are welcome at Darjeeling Express.

Does Darjeeling Express offer vegan options?

 Yes, the menu includes vegan-friendly dishes.

 Yes, reservations are accepted. It's recommended to book in advance due to the restaurant's popularity.

 Yes, Darjeeling Express is wheelchair accessible.

 The Royal Thali is a set menu priced at £65, featuring a selection of dishes served together, including options like Kosha Mangsho and Prawn Malaikari.

Community sentiment and visitor highlights

The community buzz around Darjeeling Express is overwhelmingly positive. Visitors praise the authentic home-style cooking that transports them directly to Kolkata's vibrant streets. The attentive staff, led by founder Asma, along with Radha’s welcoming hospitality, ensures every guest feels special. Many reviewers highlight the restaurant as a perfect spot for special occasions, appreciating both the quality of food and the cozy atmosphere.

Europe

United Kingdom

Nestled in the vibrant heart of Carnaby, London, Darjeeling Express is a culinary gem that transports diners to the rich tapestry of Indian flavors. This family-owned restaurant, renowned for its authentic dishes and warm hospitality, invites you to experience a delightful journey through India's diverse culinary landscape. The moment you step inside, the inviting aroma of spices fills the air, setting the stage for an unforgettable dining experience.

At Darjeeling Express, every dish tells a story, crafted with love and authenticity. Start your meal with the exquisite **chicken momos**, delicate dumplings filled with spiced chicken, served with a tangy dipping sauce that perfectly complements their flavor. For the main course, the **goat curry** is a must-try; slow-cooked to perfection, it boasts tender meat enveloped in a rich, aromatic gravy that pairs beautifully with fluffy rice and warm parathas. Each bite is a celebration of spices, transporting you straight to the bustling streets of India.

One of the unique aspects of Darjeeling Express is its commitment to showcasing the flavors of home-cooked Indian meals. The restaurant's founder, Asma Khan, emphasizes the importance of family recipes passed down through generations, ensuring that every dish is not just a meal but a heartfelt experience. The **methi chicken** is another standout, featuring tender pieces of chicken simmered in a fragrant fenugreek-infused sauce that leaves a lasting impression.

Located at 2.4 Kingly Court, Darjeeling Express is perfectly situated for those exploring the vibrant Carnaby area. Just a stone's throw away from iconic shopping destinations and cultural landmarks, it’s an ideal stop for a delicious meal after a day of sightseeing. Nearby attractions include the bustling Carnaby Street, known for its trendy shops and boutiques, and the historic Liberty London department store.

 It is renowned for its authentic Indian cuisine, particularly its home-style dishes that reflect the flavors of India.

 The restaurant offers a unique dining experience with its focus on traditional recipes and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.

 Darjeeling Express is open for lunch and dinner, making it a perfect spot for any meal.

Whether you’re a local or a traveler exploring London, make sure to stop by Darjeeling Express for a meal that feels like home. Experience the warmth of Indian hospitality and the vibrant flavors that await you. Don’t miss out on this culinary adventure—your taste buds will thank you.

Acclaimed, family-owned eatery offering an array of refined Indian dishes in a cheerful atmosphere.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNmbllyN0FREAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJedBoD9UEdkgRnEfxjGeFIpY/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNmbllyN0FREAE

I had the pleasure of dining at Darjeeling, and it was absolutely outstanding! The dishes were authentic, perfectly spiced, and showcased the rich diversity of Indian cuisine. From the creamy butter chicken to the fluffy naan, every bite was a delight.

The service was attentive and warm, making the experience even more enjoyable. I was especially impressed by the freshness of the ingredients and the meticulous preparation that was evident in every dish.

Darjeeling is a must-visit for anyone who appreciates high-quality Indian food. I can’t wait to return!

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURfOVliajJRRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJedBoD9UEdkgRnEfxjGeFIpY/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURfOVliajJRRRAB

A beautiful Indian place for a special meal!
The paneer korma and Aubergine were stellar, although I don’t think you can go wrong with any of the options on the Thali. It felt very much like authentic home cooking in the best way possible!
Very friendly service and never felt rushed.
Enjoyed trying from their selection of Indian Gins too!

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURfelpLOFNREAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJedBoD9UEdkgRnEfxjGeFIpY/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURfelpLOFNREAE

The food was delicious but a bit on the spicy side (which I love but might be a bit intense for some). The service was great as well. This place doesn’t not provide à la carte options so be prepared - come hungry as it’s a lot of (good) food! Highly recommend the old fashioned.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUN2blk2dDhnRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJedBoD9UEdkgRnEfxjGeFIpY/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUN2blk2dDhnRRAB

I've been wanting to come here for years and it didn't disappoint. The food was exceptional, perhaps the best Asian food I've eaten, and the service and staff and ambience was perfect. The open service is also great to see how things are put together. And we got to meet Asma as she came around the tables to greet diners. Perfection!

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURfX3JlUjJRRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJedBoD9UEdkgRnEfxjGeFIpY/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURfX3JlUjJRRRAB

A must-try!  We visited Darjeeling Express for a celebratory lunch on our anniversary and were delighted with the experience. We had requested private seating, and the team kindly accommodated us. The restaurant’s ambience was lovely, with warm lighting and soft music adding a cosy touch.

We began with the chicken momos, which were absolutely perfect. Next, we tried the goat curry – slow-cooked goat in a thick, mildly spiced gravy that paired beautifully with rice and plain paratha. The methi chicken was another highlight, with its well-cooked meat and flavourful curry.

One unexpected surprise was the mango lassi, which doesn’t seem to get much attention in reviews but was absolutely delightful. For dessert, we tried the Bhapa Doi, which we thoroughly enjoyed, and ended the meal with the best masala chai we’ve had in London.

Everything about Darjeeling Express took me back to my childhood, reminding me of the home-cooked food I enjoyed at my Bengali friends’ homes. I wholeheartedly recommend this restaurant for its cosy atmosphere, authentic Indian hospitality, and exceptional homely cuisine. Thank you, Asma and team for the incredible food and Radha’s hospitality and service.

Darjeeling Express: Authentic Indian Dining in Carnaby, London

Darjeeling Express began as a supper club in 2017, founded by Asma Khan, and has since grown into a celebrated restaurant known for its authentic Indian cuisine and all-female kitchen.

Darjeeling Express: A Journey of Authentic Indian Flavors in London’s Heartland 

Nestled in the vibrant streets of Carnaby, London, Darjeeling Express stands as a beacon of authentic Indian cuisine and culinary innovation. Founded in 2017 by the visionary chef Asma Khan, this beloved establishment began humbly as a supper club that quickly captured the hearts and palates of food enthusiasts across the city. What makes Darjeeling Express truly unique is its all-female kitchen brigade, celebrating empowerment alongside exquisite flavors.

Darjeeling Express’s journey began in 2017 when Asma Khan opened the supper club concept, offering an intimate glimpse into India’s culinary diversity through dishes crafted with fresh, vibrant ingredients and meticulous attention to detail. By 2020, the restaurant's soaring popularity led to a move to the bustling Covent Garden area, bringing its rich flavors and warm hospitality to an even wider audience eager to experience refined Indian fare in a lively setting.

In 2023, Darjeeling Express made a heartfelt return to its original home at Kingly Court, Carnaby Street, a location synonymous with London’s rich cultural tapestry and trendsetting food scene. This move not only rekindled its connection with the vibrant Carnaby neighborhood but also reaffirmed its commitment to delivering authentic, home-cooked Indian dishes in a cheerful and welcoming atmosphere. Today, it continues to attract foodies, digital nomads, and locals alike, who crave its perfectly spiced curries, fresh naan, and innovative takes on traditional recipes.

Highlights of Darjeeling Express’s Evolution

 Darjeeling Express started as a supper club in London, introducing guests to authentic home-cooked Indian flavors.

 The restaurant moved to the lively Covent Garden district to accommodate its growing fan base and expand its culinary reach.

 Darjeeling Express returned to its original Kingly Court location in Carnaby, blending tradition with a renewed sense of community.

Dine In

Delivery

Restroom

Reservable

Serves Beer

Serves Wine

Serves Lunch

Serves Brunch

Serves Coffee

Serves Dinner

Good for Groups

Serves Dessert

Serves Cocktails

Serves Vegetarian Food

Darjeeling Express

Authentic Indian dishes inspired by Kolkata and Mughal heritage, served in a vibrant, communal setting.

Prawn Malaikari

Beef Tamatar Gosht

Paneer Korma

Badami Baingan

Tangra Chilli Garlic Prawns

Papri Chaat

Kosha Mangsho

Venison Kofta

Bhapa Doi

Darjeeling Express Menu

Located in the vibrant heart of Carnaby, London, Darjeeling Express offers a delightful journey through authentic Indian cuisine inspired by Kolkata and Mughal heritage. This acclaimed family-owned eatery invites food lovers to indulge in a carefully crafted menu served in a cheerful, communal atmosphere where every dish tells a story.

Begin your meal with vibrant starters that set the tone for an exceptional dining experience. The Tangra Chilli Garlic Prawns bring a punch of flavor with succulent prawns tossed in fiery chili and aromatic garlic, perfectly balanced by a blend of traditional spices. For a taste of street food brilliance, the Papri Chaat offers a crunchy and tangy combination featuring spiced potatoes, black chickpeas, tamarind chutney, and fresh coriander, topped with crisp sev for texture.

Darjeeling Express excels in presenting a diverse array of mains that showcase the rich tapestry of Indian flavors. Dive into the creamy and fragrant Prawn Malaikari, where prawns swim in a luscious coconut milk sauce infused with warm spices. The Beef Tamatar Gosht features tender beef simmered with ripe tomatoes and a harmonious blend of spices for a hearty bite. Vegetarians will relish the Paneer Korma, a dreamy combination of paneer cubes in coconut cream and tomato gravy with subtle spices, while the Badami Baingan enchants with aubergine cooked alongside coconut, almonds, peanuts, and tamarind, creating a uniquely textured dish bursting with flavor.

For those seeking robust and authentic meat dishes, the Kosha Mangsho serves slow-cooked goat meat and potatoes enveloped in a richly spiced sauce, a true comfort classic. Meanwhile, the Venison Kofta offers an adventurous option with venison meatballs flavored with shikar masala, nestled in a tomato gravy with a kick of green chili.

End your culinary journey on a sweet and fragrant note with the Bhapa Doi, a traditional steamed yogurt dessert delicately infused with rose essence. This treat provides a refreshing contrast to the spice-rich mains and offers a comforting taste of home-style Indian sweetness.

Complement your meal with Darjeeling Express's selection of Indian-inspired cocktails and beverages. From expertly crafted Indian Gins to the ever-refreshing mango lassi, the drinks menu offers both traditional and contemporary choices that enhance the flavors of the meal. Guests also praise the restaurant's masala chai, considered by many the best in London, providing a warming and aromatic finale.

 inspired by Kolkata and Mughal heritage.

 like Tangra Chilli Garlic Prawns and Papri Chaat.

 such as Prawn Malaikari, Paneer Korma, Kosha Mangsho, and Venison Kofta.

 like Bhapa Doi with delicate rose essence.

 featuring Indian Gins, mango lassi, and the finest masala chai in London.

Savor authentic Indian flavors at Darjeeling Express in Carnaby, London. Experience vibrancy and spice—book your table now!

Darjeeling Express: Authentic Indian Dining in Carnaby

London Borough of Westminster

A set menu featuring a selection of dishes served together, including options like Kosha Mangsho and Prawn Malaikari.

Royal Thali

A variety of dishes available for lunch, including starters like Tangra Chilli Garlic Prawns and Papri Chaat.

Lunch à la carte

Darjeeling Express: A Taste of Authentic Indian Flavors in Carnaby London W1B 5PW UK 

Nestled in the vibrant heart of Carnaby, London, Darjeeling Express offers an extraordinary culinary journey that celebrates the richness and diversity of Indian cuisine. This acclaimed family-owned restaurant is renowned for its cheerful atmosphere and authentic flavors that make every meal a memorable experience for food lovers, digital nomads, and trend-conscious travelers alike.

Exceptional dining experience and menu highlights

At Darjeeling Express, every dish is a testament to meticulous preparation and the finest fresh ingredients. The kitchen delights guests with an array of perfectly spiced, authentic Indian plates, from the creamy butter chicken to fluffy naan bread that melts in your mouth. The restaurant also caters to vegetarian palates, ensuring a diverse and inclusive menu for all guests.

Signature offerings include the Royal Thali

, a set menu priced at 65 GBP featuring a selection of exquisite dishes like Kosha Mangsho and Prawn Malaikari served together to provide a rich and satisfying dining experience.

For those looking for a lighter or more casual option, the lunch à la carte menu offers tempting starters such as Tangra Chilli Garlic Prawns and Papri Chaat, all crafted to deliver authentic home-style Indian flavors with a modern twist.

Guests rave about the attentive and friendly service that makes every visit feel like dining in a dear friend's home. The cosy atmosphere is enhanced by warm lighting and soft music, perfect for special dinners, celebratory lunches, or relaxed gatherings with friends and family.

 to enjoy a leisurely meal in a curated environment.

Full beverage selection including beer, wine, Indian gins, and creative cocktails

 perfectly paired to complement the dishes.

 for enjoying your favorite dishes from the comfort of home.

What visitors say about Darjeeling Express

Darjeeling Express consistently receives glowing reviews praising its authentic Indian dishes, vibrant flavors, and inviting atmosphere. Visitors highlight the freshness of ingredients, the attentive service, and the memorable culinary craftsmanship that evokes the warmth of home-cooked meals. Many recommend the restaurant as a must-visit for anyone craving genuine Indian cuisine in London.

Whether you are seeking an elegant Indian dining experience, a special celebratory meal, or a relaxed lunch with flavorful options, Darjeeling Express in Carnaby W1B 5PW is the culinary destination to explore.

Darjeeling Express: Authentic Indian Flavors in the Heart of London W1B 5PW United Kingdom United Kingdom London Carnaby Kingly Court 2.4 2.4 Kingly Ct, Carnaby, London W1B 5PW, UK Darjeeling Express 9C3XGV76+2G GV76+2G London, UK restaurant point_of_interest food establishment dining in serving lunch brunch coffee dinner dessert beer wine cocktails good for groups vegetarian food attentive service all-female kitchen vibrant atmosphere popular local tourists no contactless payment reservations recommended due to popularity payment acceptsNfc acceptsDebitCards acceptsCreditCards acceptsCashOnly false cash nfc debit credit card no contactless no outdoor seating no curbside pickup no menu for children no dogs allowed no live music reservable delivery restroom available servesTakeout false delivery true food quality highly praised rich diversity spices butter chicken naan paneer korma aubergine thali Indian gins old fashioned mango lassi bhapa doi masala chai chicken momos goat curry methi chicken home-cooked style warm ambiance cozy music private seating family owned highly recommended must visit foodies digital nomads trend-conscious travelers best Asian food open kitchen Asma Radha hospitality service perfect and energetic local-friendly SEO optimized summary pros and cons balanced engaging description spot data context enrichment unique vibe standout features visitor experiences 

Greater London

Discover Darjeeling Express in Carnaby, London for authentic Indian cuisine. Enjoy a vibrant atmosphere and exquisite dishes. Book your table now!

Darjeeling Express: Authentic Indian Dining in London

Visit Darjeeling Express for a joyous Indian dining experience! Indulge in the Royal Thali and savory dishes in the heart of London. Reserve your table today!

Explore Darjeeling Express: An Indian Delight

Check out our tips for visiting Darjeeling Express, Carnaby! From must-try dishes to reservation advice, ensure you have a delightful dining experience.

Darjeeling Express: Authentic Indian Dining in Carnaby, London

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