Christoff.ai

Dishoom Covent Garden

restaurants•
London
London

Dishoom Covent Garden

12 Upper St Martin's Ln, London WC2H 9FB, United Kingdom, UK

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Christoff

Christoff's Take

Insider review

I've had the chance to experience Dishoom Covent Garden in london, and here's my honest assessment of what you can expect.

Dishoom Covent Garden: A london Experience

Christoff's take on this local spot

My Honest Review

Atmosphere & Ambiance

Dishoom Covent Garden offers a unique atmosphere in london. The venue has its own character that sets it apart from similar establishments in the area. Dishoom Covent Garden brings the soul of Bombay's legendary Irani cafés to London's theatre district! This buzzy two-floor restaurant in a grand old building serves all-day Bombay comfort food with high ceilings and retro Bollywood posters creating a theatrical 1960s vibe. Famous for their 24-hour slow-cooked house black daal (£16.90), signature bacon naan rolls (£4.90), and chicken ruby curry (£18.50). The menu spans breakfast (Big Bombay breakfast £15-20), small plates like okra fries (£3.20), grills, biryanis, curries (£7-20), plus craft cocktails and authentic chai. Expect queues and 1-hour table limits during peak times - no reservations for groups under 6. The Permit Room bar serves creative cocktails alongside the food. Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options available. British-sourced meats and St Ewe free-range eggs meet authentic Bombay spices. Delivery and collection available. Located near Covent Garden & Leicester Square tubes in the bustling theatre district. Refurbished in 2022 with ground floor, lower ground, and small conservatory seating. Service can feel rushed but staff are friendly, though reviews note inconsistency. Average spend £15-25 per person plus service charge.

Service & Experience

The service at Dishoom Covent Garden reflects the local london hospitality standards. Staff members are generally attentive to customer needs.

Value for Money

Pricing at Dishoom Covent Garden is in line with what you'd expect for this type of establishment in london. The value proposition depends on what you're looking for in your visit.

Insider Tips

Best Time to Visit

Timing can make a significant difference to your experience here. Consider visiting during off-peak hours for a more relaxed atmosphere.

What to Focus On

Make the most of what this venue specializes in.

Christoff's Insider Tips

Check their website for current offerings and special events. Opening hours: "Daily: 8am-11pm (Fri-Sat: 12am)"

The Final Verdict

Dishoom Covent Garden has carved out its niche in the london scene. While it may not be for everyone, it offers something unique for those who appreciate its particular style.

Christoff's Rating:
7/10

Perfect For:

london localsvisitors seeking authentic experiencesexperience seekers

Quick Details

1

Dishoom Covent Garden

⭐️ Buzzy
⭐️ Retro bollywood
⭐️ Queue worthy
⭐️ Instagram worthy
⭐️ Theater district

The soul of 1960s Bombay lives in this buzzy two-floor restaurant with retro Bollywood posters and theatrical energy. Their 24-hour slow-cooked black daal has achieved legendary status, while bacon naan rolls at £4.90 remain one of London's best breakfast bargains. The grand old building with high ceilings creates perfect Instagram backdrops, but it's the authentic Irani café atmosphere that keeps locals queuing. Free chai while you wait sweetens the notorious wait times.

What's Great

✓ 24-hour slow-cooked black daal worth the legendary hype

✓ Free chai service while queuing plus perfect Instagram lighting

Keep in Mind

× One-hour table limit during peak times prevents relaxed dining

Christoff

Christoff's Tip:

Queue at 11am for early lunch - shorter wait plus natural lighting hits different

Vibe check scores

Trendiness
Sophistication
Noise Level
Uniqueness

Venue details

🕐"Daily: 8am-11pm (Fri-Sat: 12am)"
📍12 Upper St Martin's Ln, London WC2H 9FB, United Kingdom, UK
💷£££
📞+44 20 7420 0220
🌐Website

Featured In My Guides

Dishoom Covent Garden has been featured in 1 of my curated guides. Here's where you can find more context and discover similar spots.

Covent Garden Restaurant Secrets: A Theater Insider's Guide 2025 reference image

Covent Garden Restaurant Secrets: A Theater Insider's Guide 2025

restaurants in london•
Aug 21, 2025
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