Babur

Readers applaud this “gem” of an Indian restaurant for its “artfully chosen” decor, “superb” cocktails and “exceptional” food. Babur is a long-standing neighbourhood favourite, where furnishings have become increasingly stylish over the years (currently, bare brick, tiled flooring, low-hanging lights and wooden partitions holding vibrant flower displays) and the Sunday buffet remains consistently popular. Food encompasses both northern and southern Indian cookery, so you’ll find clove-smoked lamb chops from the tandoor, as well as wild mushroom and pea dosa. But the new menu also contains a healthy dose of innovation. Dishes such as steamed spice-crusted shoulder of lamb with beetroot rice combine prime British ingredients with bold Punjabi flavours. Ostrich is marinated in a fierce Rajasthani masala, and even goat gets a look-in: slow-cooked to perfection and transformed with aromatic spices. To match these dishes, Master of Wine Peter McCombie has put together a list of food-friendly bottles.

Since opening in 1985, Indian restaurant Babur has held its place in South London's Forest Hill as one of the most popular places to enjoy a range of food from across South Asia. The restaurant says its mission is to represent India's many different cuisines - not just the dishes you see at your local curry house - and offer both traditional and modern takes. 

And, it seems it has managed to do just that, having appeared on The Michelin Guide London, as well as both The AA Restaurant Guide and The Good Food Guide by Waitrose in 2024. Amongst its various praises are notes on the continued stylishness of the restaurant from its exposed brick feature walls to elaborate floral installations, as well as its popularity with locals for unique, off-the-beaten-path dishes. 

There's a selection of menus available, most notably the a la carte, tasting menu and Sunday buffet. Some highlights from the a la carte include a modern twist on a tikka dish in the form of swordfish with onion, radish pickle and yellow chilli, alongside mains like Garam masala Gressingham duck with rainbow quinoa khichdi and orange jus. We also like the sound of the baby aubergines with peanut sauce, garlic nan, seasoned spinach and cottage cheese, as well as sides like thinly-sliced crispy fried potatoes with dried mango powder.

If you have a sweet tooth, there's absolutely loads to go at here, from the pistachio kulfi with white chocolate soil and pistachio tuiles, as well as the spiced apricot and fig crumble with saffron custard, both of which are offered with a sweet wine pairing. 

While Babur doesn't put on weekly events, check out its calender for special themed nights for holidays like Valentine's Day and Christmas. And, if you're throwing your own bash, the team are happy for you to take over the restaurant, use their marquee or come and cater for you at a different location.