Papa-Dum - James Street Kitchen

Tucked away on James Street, Papa-Dum brings proper Indian cooking to central London with a kitchen that knows its spices. The team here has built a loyal following by sticking to what works — bold flavours, generous portions, and a menu that covers everything from family favourites to lesser-known regional dishes. With a solid Food Hygiene Rating and years of experience feeding hungry Londoners, this is the kind of place you bookmarks for those evenings when only a proper curry will do.

Their butter chicken is a standout — rich, creamy, and balanced with just the right hit of heat — while the lamb rogan josh delivers slow-cooked depth that speaks to patient kitchen work. Vegetarians aren't forgotten either: the saag paneer is fresh and earthy, and the dal makhani has that slow-simmered richness you'd hope for. Whether you're ordering a feast for the table or just a quick biryani to go, Papa-Dum delivers consistently solid Indian food from a kitchen that clearly cares. Order direct for the smoothest experience.