In the heart of London's vibrant culinary scene, a new restaurant, Oudh 1722, is making waves. This establishment, led by the renowned chef Aktar Islam, is a testament to his culinary prowess and a unique take on Awadhi cuisine. The restaurant's name, Oudh 1722, pays homage to the Nawabi era, which began in 1722, and the luxurious, slow-cooked dishes it was known for. The review begins by setting the stage, describing the restaurant's location near Borough Market and its eclectic layout, which includes a listed Victorian townhouse with a rich history. The author is immediately drawn into the restaurant's charm, noting the lovely staff and smooth operation, despite the labor-intensive and precisely styled food. The menu is a delightful journey through Awadhi traditions, starting with a traditional lamb shorba and gol guppa, moving on to naashta (street snacks) like chaat and gilawat (melting kebabs), and concluding with a modern twist on traditional dishes like nihari and sabzi. The author is particularly impressed by the generous portions and the deliciousness of the food, even if it may be considered finickety. The highlight of the meal is the mutanjan dam biryani, a fragrant rice dish with slow-cooked oxtail and sweet carrots, which the author happily takes home in a doggy bag. The review concludes with a nod to the restaurant's Michelin aspirations, but also its midriff-expanding potential, and a recommendation to try it when faced with the rumored waiting list at Gymkhana. Oudh 1722 is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique and delectable culinary experience in London.
