Darjeeling Express

Culinary Roots in Kingly Court

Opened as a small supper club in 2012, Darjeeling Express set down permanent roots in Soho’s Kingly Court in 2017, returned triumphantly in March 2023 after a Covent Garden chapter, and now marks over five vibrant years of service to the neighbourhood. Founded by celebrated chef Asma Khan, the Indian restaurant draws on home-style recipes from Kolkata, Hyderabad and Bengal. Visitors can watch an all-female kitchen prepare fragrant North Indian cuisine, from slow-cooked mutton kosha to royal thalis designed for sharing. Lunchtime brings quick thali sets perfect for local office teams, while evenings stretch into relaxed gatherings lit by the hum of Carnaby Street below. Staff move with easy warmth, ready to explain spice levels, vegan swaps or the story behind each family recipe, making first-time guests feel like returning friends.

Trusted and Celebrated Neighbour Favourite

Transparency and consistency earn Darjeeling Express deep trust. Independent inspectors at Michelin have listed the restaurant since its earliest Soho days, praising flavours that stay true to Asma Khan’s heritage. Hundreds of verified five-star TripAdvisor reviews echo the sentiment, applauding warm service, inclusive menus and fair pricing. Beyond the dining room, Khan mentors immigrant women and funds education projects in Kolkata, reinforcing the brand’s social purpose. Regular press features, including a prominent episode of Netflix’s Chef’s Table, position the venture as a leading voice in Britain’s South Asian food scene. Local partnerships with Carnaby’s seasonal festivals keep the kitchen front-of-mind for tourists and office workers seeking authentic Indian food in central London. Reliable reservation systems and clear allergen labelling add practical reassurance, making repeated visits effortless for singles, families and corporate groups alike.