Want to embark on a unique gastronomic odyssey in the heart of London? The Colonel Saab restaurant in High Holborn promises much more than just a dinner. In this article, discover this sophisticated place where the magic of India meets London elegance, where every bite and every detail of the decor tells a story. From theatrical service to a bold menu, prepare to awaken all your senses, not forgetting some recommendations to extend the culinary escape in the British capital.
Review of Colonel Saab Restaurant in High Holborn, London: A Visual and Sensory Invitation
As soon as you step through the door, it’s a feast for the eyes: the ceiling of Colonel Saab is adorned with a canopy of majestic chandeliers that bathe the room in delightfully dimmed light. On the walls, artworks and photographs recount the story of a certain Colonel Manbeer Choudhary, a decorated hero of the Indian army and the inspiration for this place, like a benevolent guardian watching over your meal. A plush atmosphere, impeccable burgundy uniforms in the service, everything here seems choreographed to offer an experience where one feels both invited and a spectator of a wonderful ballet.
The First Flavors: A Spectacular Start with the Starters
Forget everything you think you know about Indian starters. Here, each appetizer is a delicious and artistic diversion. Special mention goes to the Banarasi Amrood Ki Chaat, a true savory ice cream cone, where guava dances with tamarind chutney, raspberry sauce, and spicy cream. One bite, and it’s a fireworks show in your mouth! Next, the elegant Hummus, Beetroot & Orange Salad blends beetroot, orange, chickpea hummus, toasted pine nuts, and khakhra crackers for a combination of sweetness, acidity, and crunch. Finally, the Zimikand & Beetroot Tikki – Kolkata-style croquettes – reveals its dense and fragrant heart, enhanced by a lemony pickle and a very inspired homemade kasundi sauce.
Main Dishes Inspired by India’s Great Highways
Now, let’s turn to the pièce de résistance! The main dishes also evoke the Colonel’s grand journeys. Vegetarians are well catered for with the Paneer-E-Pukhtan, a medley of sautéed vegetables in butter, shahi pumpkin and tomato sauce, and grilled and stuffed cottage cheese – a true mosaic of sweet, spicy, and creamy flavors. Meat lovers cannot resist the legendary Old Delhi’s Famous Lamb Curry, an interpretation of keema boti style “Sardar Ji meat wale”: the lamb melts in the mouth, supported by a subtly spiced sauce that never dominates the palate. Three words: rich, authentic, mastered. Fragrant rice and naan (special mention to the peshwari version, slightly sweet thanks to coconut and dried apricot) perfectly complement each bite.
Spectacular Desserts, Between Theatre and Indulgence
It’s impossible to end without mentioning the desserts, true culinary works of art! The Pineapple Jalebi – a surprising alliance between jalebi with pineapple, rabri whipped cream, pistachio kulfi, and crumble – competes in originality with the Chakka Varattiyathur tart, an explosive marriage of mango sorbet, fruity pearls, and jackfruit halwa. The highlight of the show? The Kochi’s Coconut Pannacotta, nestled in half a coconut, revealing its aromas under a lovely cloud of smoke for a “wow” effect at the table. Enough to dream for a good part of the evening.
Atmosphere, Decor & Cocktails: The Odyssey of the Senses
The Colonel Saab wouldn’t be true to itself without its staging. The service, all smiles and attentiveness, adds that little extra soul. To perfect the experience, the cocktail menu offers bold creations like the Spicy Podi Margarita — tequila here embraces chili and a house-made syrup with Indian spices for a guaranteed palate awakening. The bar lends itself to both exploration and festivity.
Culinary Paths to Explore in London
If this immersion has given you the desire to further explore the London culinary scene, discover other inspiring addresses like a sophisticated Indian restaurant in Knightsbridge, or indulge in amazing vintage experiences. Escape enthusiasts might also enjoy this Oriental culinary journey or go see what’s cooking on the Basque stars side. And to extend the discovery for a weekend? It’s here!
