Oudh 1722, a new restaurant in London's southeast, is a culinary journey through time and tradition. Chef Aktar Islam, known for his Michelin-starred restaurants in Birmingham, has brought his unique take on Awadhi cuisine to the capital. The restaurant's name pays homage to the Nawabi era, which began in 1722, and the food reflects the luxurious and slow-cooked nature of that time. The menu is a delightful blend of ancient and modern, with dishes like lamb shorba and gol guppa, as well as contemporary twists on traditional favorites.
What makes Oudh 1722 truly special is its ability to capture the essence of Awadhi cuisine while adding a modern touch. The restaurant's layout, with its narrow staircases and hidden back doors, adds to the charm and creates a unique dining experience. The staff is friendly and efficient, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable meal. The food is labor-intensive and styled with precision, but it is still delicious and generously portioned, making it a true blowout feast.
One of the standout dishes is the mutanjan dam biryani, a mountain of fragrant rice with melting, slow-cooked oxtail and bags of sweet carrot. The ras malai, a soft dumpling of fresh cheese soaked in chilled spiced cream, is another favorite. The restaurant also offers a variety of street snacks, like chaat and gilawat, and a selection of vegetarian dishes, such as kaddu ki qorma and gobi mussalam. The bar upstairs serves unique cocktails, like mango chutney margaritas and brandy-based old fashioneds.
Oudh 1722 is a must-visit for anyone looking for a truly unique dining experience. It is a testament to the power of food to transport us through time and culture. The restaurant's combination of ambition and sincerity, along with its genuinely interesting cooking, makes it one of the restaurant openings of 2026. So, if you're looking for a blowout feast, look no further than Oudh 1722. Just be prepared for a waiting list, as it's sure to be a popular spot.
