Dishoom is a popular UK-based restaurant group inspired by the old Irani cafés of Bombay (Mumbai), offering Indian comfort food, iconic breakfasts, and a nostalgic dining experience across cities like London, Edinburgh, Manchester, and Birmingham. Founded in 2010, Dishoom blends heritage recipes, vintage décor, and warm hospitality to recreate the charm of 20th-century Bombay cafés. From its famous bacon naan roll breakfast to richly spiced curries and house chai, Dishoom has become one of the most sought-after dining experiences in the UK.
In this comprehensive guide, you’ll learn everything about Dishoom—from its history and concept to menu highlights, prices, locations, booking tips, and insider recommendations. Whether you’re planning your first visit or looking to explore the full experience, this article covers all key details in a structured, easy-to-scan format designed for modern search and practical overviews.
What Is Dishoom?
Dishoom is a restaurant brand that recreates the Irani cafés of Bombay, which were social hubs for people from all walks of life during the early 20th century. The concept combines authentic Indian recipes with British dining culture, making it highly appealing to a global audience.
The first Dishoom opened in Covent Garden, London, in 2010. Since then, it has expanded across major UK cities, maintaining a consistent brand identity rooted in storytelling, nostalgia, and hospitality. Each location is designed to reflect a specific era or cultural theme from Bombay’s history.
Dishoom stands out not just for its food but for its immersive atmosphere, featuring vintage furniture, sepia-toned photographs, and curated playlists. This attention to detail makes it more than just a restaurant—it’s an experience.
Dishoom Concept and Inspiration
Dishoom draws inspiration from Irani cafés founded by Persian immigrants in Bombay during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. These cafés were known for their welcoming environment, affordable food, and diverse clientele.
The founders of Dishoom aimed to preserve this cultural legacy while adapting it for modern diners. They travelled extensively across Mumbai to research recipes, décor, and café culture before launching the brand.
Each Dishoom restaurant tells a unique story. For example, some locations are themed around post-war Bombay, while others reflect jazz-era cafés or railway dining rooms. This storytelling approach enhances the dining experience and differentiates Dishoom from typical Indian restaurants.
Dishoom Locations in the UK
Dishoom currently operates in multiple major UK cities, including:
London: Covent Garden, Shoreditch, King’s Cross, Carnaby, Kensington
Edinburgh: St Andrew Square
Manchester: Bridge Street
Birmingham: Paradise
Each location is carefully chosen in vibrant urban areas, often near cultural or historic landmarks.
Despite being part of a chain, each restaurant has a distinct personality and interior design. This ensures repeat visits feel fresh and unique.
Dishoom Menu Overview
Dishoom’s menu is divided into breakfast, lunch, dinner, and drinks, offering a wide range of Indian comfort food with a modern twist.
The food is inspired by Bombay street food, home cooking, and café classics. Ingredients are carefully sourced, and many recipes are slow-cooked for depth of flavour.
The menu balances vegetarian and non-vegetarian options, making it accessible to diverse dietary preferences. It also includes vegan and gluten-free dishes.
Famous Dishoom Breakfast
Dishoom breakfast is one of its biggest attractions, often drawing long queues.
Signature items include:
Bacon Naan Roll: A freshly baked naan filled with crispy bacon, cream cheese, chilli jam, and herbs.
Sausage Naan Roll: A halal-friendly alternative with spiced sausage.
Akuri: Spiced scrambled eggs served with buttered buns.
Porridge: A comforting option with dates, bananas, and chai spices.
Breakfast is typically served until 11:45 AM on weekdays and slightly later on weekends.
The bacon naan roll is widely considered Dishoom’s most iconic dish, often featured in food rankings and reviews.
Lunch and Dinner Highlights
Dishoom’s main menu features a mix of small plates, grills, curries, and biryanis.
Popular dishes include:
Chicken Ruby: A rich, mildly spiced curry inspired by butter chicken.
Black Daal: Slow-cooked for over 24 hours, creamy and deeply flavourful.
House Biryani: Served with a pastry lid and accompanied by raita.
Paneer Tikka: A vegetarian favourite with smoky flavours.
Small plates such as samosas, chaat, and kebabs are perfect for sharing.
The menu encourages a communal dining style, where multiple dishes are ordered and shared among guests.
Drinks and Chai Culture
Dishoom is also known for its beverage selection, especially its house chai.
Chai is brewed using a traditional recipe with black tea, milk, sugar, and warming spices. It’s available throughout the day and is a must-try for first-time visitors.
The drinks menu also includes:
Lassis (sweet and salty)
Fresh juices
Craft cocktails inspired by Indian flavours
Beer and wine
Evening cocktails often feature spices like cardamom, cumin, and saffron, adding a unique twist to classic drinks.
Interior Design and Ambience
Dishoom interiors are carefully curated to reflect Bombay’s café culture.
Key design elements include:
Vintage furniture and ceiling fans
Framed photographs and artwork
Marble tabletops and tiled floors
Soft lighting and retro music
Each restaurant tells a story through its décor, creating a nostalgic yet lively atmosphere.
The ambience is casual yet sophisticated, making it suitable for both everyday dining and special occasions.
Dishoom Pricing Guide
Dishoom is considered mid-range in terms of pricing.
Typical costs:
Breakfast: £6–£12 per person
Lunch: £15–£25 per person
Dinner: £25–£40 per person
Signature dishes like black daal and chicken ruby are reasonably priced given their quality and portion size.
Cocktails and drinks can add to the overall bill, especially during evening visits.
Booking and Waiting Times
Dishoom operates a mixed booking system.
Breakfast: Usually walk-in only
Lunch: Limited reservations available
Dinner: Partial reservations with walk-in queues
Queues are common, especially during peak hours and weekends.
Some locations offer a “queue management system” where guests can provide their number and return when their table is ready.
Practical Information and Planning
Opening Hours
Most Dishoom locations open around 8 AM for breakfast and close between 10 PM and midnight depending on the city and day.
Prices
Affordable for casual dining, with flexible options for different budgets.
Transport
Locations are centrally located near public transport hubs such as Underground stations, tram stops, and bus routes.
What to Expect
Expect a lively atmosphere, friendly service, and a short wait during busy times. Food is served promptly once seated.
Tips for Visitors
Arrive early for breakfast to avoid queues.
Try the bacon naan roll or black daal for signature flavours.
Visit during off-peak hours for a quieter experience.
Share dishes to explore more of the menu.
Seasonal and Special Offerings
Dishoom occasionally introduces seasonal dishes and limited-time menus.
These may include festive specials during Christmas or regional Indian dishes inspired by seasonal ingredients.
The brand also supports charitable initiatives, such as donating meals for every meal served during certain campaigns.
Seasonal cocktails and desserts are also introduced to keep the menu fresh and exciting.
Dishoom Cookbook and Brand Expansion
Dishoom has published a bestselling cookbook that shares recipes and stories from Bombay.
The cookbook allows fans to recreate popular dishes at home, including black daal and chai.
The brand has also expanded into retail, offering chai blends, sauces, and gift sets.
Despite its growth, Dishoom maintains a strong focus on quality and authenticity.
Why Dishoom Is So Popular
Dishoom’s success can be attributed to several factors:
Unique concept blending Indian and British culture
Consistent food quality across locations
Strong brand storytelling and design
Affordable pricing relative to experience
Wide appeal across demographics
The combination of nostalgia, flavour, and hospitality creates a memorable dining experience that keeps customers returning.
FAQs
What is Dishoom famous for?
Dishoom is best known for its bacon naan roll breakfast and black daal. These dishes have become iconic due to their flavour and consistency across locations.
Where did Dishoom originate?
Dishoom started in Covent Garden, London, in 2010. It was inspired by the Irani cafés of Bombay.
Is Dishoom expensive?
Dishoom is mid-range, with meals typically costing £15–£40 per person depending on what you order.
Do you need to book Dishoom?
Bookings are available for some meals, but many customers walk in. Expect queues during peak times.
What time does Dishoom serve breakfast?
Breakfast is usually served from 8 AM until around 11:45 AM on weekdays and slightly later on weekends.
Is Dishoom halal?
Most chicken and lamb dishes are halal, but alcohol is served, so it’s not a fully halal restaurant.
What is the best dish at Dishoom?
Popular choices include bacon naan roll, chicken ruby, black daal, and house biryani.
Does Dishoom offer vegetarian options?
Yes, there are many vegetarian and vegan dishes, including paneer tikka and vegetable curries.
Can you take away from Dishoom?
Yes, takeaway and delivery options are available at most locations.
Is Dishoom family-friendly?
Yes, the casual atmosphere and diverse menu make it suitable for families.
Does Dishoom have gluten-free food?
Yes, several dishes are gluten-free or can be adapted.
How long is the wait at Dishoom?
Waiting times can range from 15 minutes to over an hour during busy periods.
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