The Raj of Kensington is an Indian restaurant at 1 Abingdon Road. Its menu explores regional dishes associated with routes and communities across India during the period of British rule, while also revisiting the familiar curries that later became part of British dining culture. The result combines historical inspiration with a relaxed neighbourhood restaurant format.
Appetisers range from Punjabi samosas and potato chaat to Mangalorean chicken and king prawns in a sweet, sour and hot patia sauce. The clay oven prepares cumin scented chicken tikka, lamb seekh kebab, Kashmiri chilli chicken and tiger prawns with caraway. Lamb chops, salmon with fenugreek and paneer stuffed with prunes broaden the grill selection.
Regional main dishes move from chicken with curry leaves, chilli and coconut milk to lamb cooked with shallot, fennel and red chilli. Railway lamb curry, Kashmiri rogan josh and prawns with coconut, lime and mustard seeds give each part of the menu a distinct identity. Dum biryani seals aromatic rice, cardamom, cinnamon and yoghurt together over a slow fire.
Paneer butter masala, okra with onion, yellow lentils, aubergine with coconut and tamarind and black lentils cooked overnight provide substantial vegetarian choices. Traditional madras, dopiaza and dhansak remain available for diners seeking familiar curry house styles. Fresh breads, rice, chutneys, beer and other drinks allow the table to build a complete shared meal.
Address: 1 Abingdon Road, Kensington, London W8 6AH, United Kingdom