Oorja Soho is a vibrant all day Indian restaurant on Shaftesbury Avenue in the heart of London’s theatre district. Its name means energy in Hindi, a theme reflected through warm terracotta interiors, lively flavours and a downstairs bar suited to longer evenings. The menu draws particularly on North Indian family recipes while moving easily from lunch and pre theatre dining to dinner and Sunday roast.
Small plates include Banarasi palak patta chaat, where crisp gram flour coated spinach meets potato, pomegranate, yoghurt, tamarind and mint. Calamari pepper fry is dusted with black pepper and curry leaf podi, while Schezwan chilli chicken takes inspiration from Calcutta street cooking. Breakfast influenced choices such as egg bhurji on sourdough and the Sawera kebab platter extend the restaurant’s comfort food identity.
The tandoor produces barbecue butterfly chicken marinated with fenugreek and cream cheese, served with mint chutney and onion salad. Railway lamb curry combines tender lamb leg with black cardamom, mace and onion gravy, while mango shrimp curry brings a sweeter coastal character. Chickpea masala, mustard greens with corn roti, aromatic biryani and other vegetarian dishes create a broad meat free selection.
Sunday service gives the British roast an Indian direction through tandoori spiced beef or chicken, crisp potatoes, vegetables, Yorkshire pudding and peppercorn masala gravy. Gulab jamun paired with crème brûlée provides a playful dessert, and cocktails use Indian plum, kokum, vetiver and spice alongside familiar spirits. Wine, Champagne and beer complete a menu designed for both theatre visitors and unhurried group meals.
Address: 117 Shaftesbury Avenue, Soho, London WC2H 8AF, United Kingdom