A fresh new take on Indian cuisine lies hidden in Chapel Market, boasting everything from a classic tikka masala to more adventurous and individual dishes.

The Venue
Rooburoo Restaurant is about as far from a traditional curry house as you can get. Clean cut lines, wood floors and big traditional Indian oil paintings give it a fresh and open feel, and the muzak is pleasantly upbeat. A gorgeous mural decorates the area behind the bar, depicting a traditional Indian market. Tables are lined up along the long and thin venue, but not so close that you feel like the person next to you is in danger of elbowing you in the ribs at any point.

The Atmosphere
Very laid back. The staff are friendly and willing to give plenty of advice on the wide range of dishes, and the clientele are mainly people who have heard about the restaurant through reviews or word of mouth - there aren’t many walk-ins due to the odd location. There are more couples enjoying a quiet meal than big groups, and it’s pretty much pot luck as to whether you get a busy night or a quiet one.

The Food
The menu has such a huge range of dishes, it’s almost overwhelming. The starters range from traditional and incredibly tasty samosas, stuffed with spicy lamb, to less traditional but no less appealing momos, steamed dumplings filled with chicken and served with crispy spring onions and ginger. For mains, there’s ‘rooburoasts’ like moist chicken tikka and a whole fish roasted in a banana leaf with chilli, sea salt and herbs that just falls off the bone. Rooby murrays (curries, obviously) boast an impressive vegetarian range, and the Roobur-reckless dishes are for the more adventurous, including lamb pepper fry, a flavour-filled curry with pickled peppers and succulent lamb. Side orders (if you can manage them) include healthy options like brown rice, wheat-free bread and crispy veg, as well as big fluffy naans and crisp pops (poppadoms) that come with a range of homemade dips.

The Drink
Rooburoo’s drink concoctions include freshly juiced fruit with sparkling water, a range of lassi (a traditional Indian yoghurt-based drink) and cocktails with an Indian twist, like Rooburtini and black Indian. There’s also a basic but good wine list and a fully stocked bar.

The Last Word
If average curry house fare is getting you down, Rooburoo Restaurant is a refreshing and exciting take on Britain’s favourite cuisine. The prices are as appealing as the food, and you’re guaranteed to stumble out with a satisfied smile on your face.

venue information venue map view london review user reviews (1) image gallery (4)