In the heart of Holborn, a world away from the hustle of Covent Garden is Holborn Town Hall which may seem the odd address for an Indian restaurant; however, once over the threshold of Colonel Saab, you’ll be rewarded with a welcoming and eclectic dining experience and a unique menu to match the intriguing decor.
Joining the Ranks of Colonel Saab
Firstly, you may notice the glittering, statement chandeliers which furnish the ceiling; and that is chandeliers plural as they cover every inch of the ceiling. Then your gaze could wander to the mish-mash of photographs, plates and clocks on the walls, as the waiter brings you the ornate, hard-covered drinks menu.
A range of cocktails, including Colonel Saab’s Specials, designed by award-winning Mixologist Anthony Bertin are bound to start any evening with a punch! I opted for a ‘Mr Puri’ which is basically a Pisco Sour with jasmine and yuzu, giving it a delicious twist.
Colonel Saab Inspiration from Home
Inspired by restaurant owner Roop Choudhary’s travels around India, and named in remembrance of his father, Manbeer, who was nicknamed Colonel Saab during his time in the Indian army.
The menu was designed by bestselling food author Karen Anan with Roop Choudhary, and is a fusion of flavours that is not your typical Indian experience; neither is it your typical fine dining offering, but if you go with an open mind and a large wallet you’ll have a dining experience like no other, and like the couple next to us, makes it a great date night venue if you want to impress. Expect to see familiar favourites such as tiffins, dosas, Lamb Shanks and Butter Chicken alongside lesser-seen Indian dishes on the menu.
My guest and I ordered plates to share which, recommended by the staff, seemed rather plentiful, and the portions were not shy, and by the time the mains came, sharing was a welcome relief. But even then, we couldn’t make too much of a dent in the combination of spicy, saucy dishes, which although an Instagrammer’s dream, was way too much! However, I was offered a doggy bag, without asking as it was whisked away to be packed up in recyclable tubs and a brown paper bag.
I could have stuck with the starters to be honest, as the Kandhari Paneer was melt in the mouth perfect, with grilled cottage cheese, mildly spiced pomegranate and tomato salsa, mini chickpea samosas, Mall Road’s Dahi Sev Puri and Sarsoi Ajwaini Fish Tikka with green mango salsa. Whereas the mains: Gutti Vankaya (baby aubergine) and Falahari Curry Kofta were rather saucy. Although we did add the slow baked Confit of Cauliflower and a couple of rotis, which diluted any dribbles.
With a second restaurant on the horizon, London may be ready for the Colonel Saab’s revolution!
Colonel Saab
Holborn Town Hall
193-197 High Holborn
London
WC1V 7BD
