Darjeeling Express
Influencer Reviews1
TOPJAW
About
Darjeeling Express was founded by Asma Khan, who began her culinary journey hosting supper clubs before opening the restaurant in London. The kitchen is run by an all-female team, many of whom have been with Asma since her early days. The restaurant is celebrated for its authentic home-style Indian dishes and unique desserts.
The Visit
Darjeeling Express offers a deeply personal and authentic Indian dining experience, with dishes rooted in Bengali and Hyderabadi traditions. The reviewer highlights the prawn malai curry, keema with spinach, and the rare apricot dessert, khobani ka metha. The kitchen's camaraderie and Asma's leadership shine through, making the meal feel both special and comforting. Standout flavors and a sense of heritage define the experience.
What They Ate
Quotes
"Then, of course, because I'm from Bengal, the prawn malai curry. That's one of the few dishes that actually made with a gravy of coconut milk."
"This prawn curry's got levels. It's made for the son-in-law, never the daughter-in-law. It's made for son-in-law, and made for fancy events."
"Keema, mince they make themselves, spinach. Topside beef, really good quality. We mince the meat ourselves, put a bit of spinach. It is that wholesome, healing, childhood dish."
"The last thing that I want you to have is something that is very unique. It's an apricot dessert. It's called khobani ka metha. Yum. And not aggressively sweet. No way. It's a rare dessert made in a palace, and you can taste that in my restaurant. I'll make you one."
"I think I was most sort of surprised by the keema. No. The aubergine peanut curry, and the apricot things with cream."
Our Reflection
Darjeeling Express stands out for its heartfelt approach to Indian cuisine, blending nostalgia with culinary excellence. The prawn malai curry and keema evoke memories of home and special occasions, while the rare apricot dessert adds a regal touch. The kitchen's loyalty to Asma Khan and her leadership is palpable, creating a sense of family and tradition. Each dish is crafted with care, and the experience feels both intimate and celebratory, leaving a lasting impression of warmth and authenticity.
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