London truly captures the heart and spirit of Christmas. It’s a magical time in the city with its iconic streets shimmering with twinkling lights, Christmas trees everywhere and the warm glow of pubs, bars, and restaurants temptingly lining the streets. Nowhere is this more true than in bustling Oxford Street and its surroundings. This is where we’re headed today to sample some delectable Indian food.
1947 London is a very short walk from Oxford Circus station. The restaurant celebrates the authentic taste of India and its menu serves dishes that are reminiscent of recipes that evolved out of the movement of people and cultures during the 1947 partition. Hence the name.
It’s an elegant, light and airy space with the bar as its centrepiece where the talented mixologists produce a wide selection of fabulous cocktails. We start off with GLG martinis – a delicious concoction of vodka, lemon juice, ginger and lemongrass cordial. It’s zesty and refreshing and the perfect accompaniment to our trio of poppodams with green and chilli lime chutneys which we munch on as we peruse the menu.
There’s a great selection, and the menu differs from your usual London establishment, so we’re excited to try something new. We start with chilli pepper prawns, a generous portion of cripsy prawns which manage to be both crispy and juicy at the same time with a light and spicy coating.
Also to start we try the highway chicken sukka – chettinad chicken served on an irresistibly flaky malabar paratha. This is the dish of dreams, with the perfectly balanced symphony of spices leaving a tingle on our tongues. It’s a pretty generous portion for a starter but we can’t help finish it off, it’s totally moreish.
We’re in a lamb state of mind for mains. The tandoori smoked lamb chops are done on the embers in the clay oven and are so tender and flavoursome. And then there’s the richness of the Dhaba lamb curry in its luscious sauce which we dip our tandoori roti into with relish.
We complete the feast with a bowl of lasooni palak – an incredibly satisfying creamy spinach dish made with golden garlic and fenugreek and a bowl of the most perfect soft and buttery steamed basmati rice. How can a simple dish of rice taste so good?
1947 London is a beautiful, stylish restaurant lit up with twinkling lights and artistic wall displays. It offers a dining experience that seamlessly blends exceptional food with outstanding service. From the moment you step inside, the warm and attentive staff ensure you feel welcome and comfortable. The meticulously crafted dishes are bursting with authentic flavors making for an unforgettable feast. And don’t forget to try the cocktails. You won’t regret it.
1947 is at 4 Great Portland Street W1.
To be accurate, it’s just off Great Portland Street one block from Oxford Street and a two-minute walk from Oxford Circus underground station.
Words by Sandy Cadiz-Smith