We recently dined at Oorja on Shaftesbury Avenue, and it was an experience that beautifully blended tradition, flavour, and a touch of modern flair.
From the moment we walked in, the service was warm and attentive, and the ambiance had a contemporary yet rooted vibe that made us feel welcome and excited for what was to come.
We began our meal with the Chicken Tikka Paratha Roll. This dish combined street food comfort with restaurant refinement. Tender chunks of tandoor-grilled chicken tikka were wrapped in a flaky, warm paratha and elevated with a spiced mayo and crunchy pickled onions. It was hearty, full of texture, and incredibly satisfying.
The Barrah Lamb Chop was, without a doubt, one of the standout dishes of the evening and an absolute must-try. The lamb was marinated in bold spices and grilled in the tandoor until it reached that perfect point of tenderness, with a slightly charred exterior that added depth and smokiness. Each bite was juicy and rich in flavour.
We also tried the Braised Beef Short Rib, which was another highlight. The meat was slow-cooked to perfection, falling apart effortlessly with a spoon. The sauce was deeply aromatic, with layers of warmth from traditional Indian spices, creating a dish that was both comforting and luxurious.
The Butter Chicken at Oorja was excellent. It had a silky, tomato-based gravy with a subtle sweetness and tang, balancing rich creaminess with just the right amount of spice. It’s the kind of butter chicken that leaves you scooping up every last bit of sauce with your naan or spooning it over fluffy rice.
We couldn’t resist ordering the Awadhi Chicken Biryani, and it did not disappoint. The rice was fragrant with saffron and whole spices, while the chicken was juicy and well-marinated, tucked within layers of flavourful basmati. Garnished with crispy onions and fresh herbs, it was a wonderfully aromatic and satisfying dish.
For dessert, we tried the Organic Purple Carrot Halwa. This was a refreshing twist on the classic gajar halwa. Made with organic purple carrots, it had a deep, slightly earthy sweetness and a dense, fudgy texture. It was a rich and warming dessert, though we felt it would have been even better served with a scoop of vanilla or pistachio ice cream to contrast the warmth with some creaminess.
During the meal we enjoyed some refreshing mocktails. We then finished with a cup of Karak Chai, which was brewed strong and spiced perfectly—a comforting end to a flavour-packed experience.
Overall, Oorja delivered a memorable dining experience with high-quality ingredients, refined techniques, and authentic Indian flavours. The service was excellent throughout, with staff who were knowledgeable about the menu and genuinely cared about the guest experience. Whether you're in the mood for comforting classics or looking to explore more adventurous dishes, Oorja is a fantastic addition to London’s Indian dining scene. We’ll definitely...
Read moreI had an absolutely fantastic experience at Oorja this evening. From the moment I stepped inside, I was struck by the contemporary yet inviting design, which seamlessly blends modern aesthetics with traditional Indian artifacts. For a restaurant that has only been open for three weeks, the staff operated like a well-oiled machine—warm, professional, and incredibly attentive.
Upon arrival, I was warmly greeted and escorted to a charming corner table on the street-level floor. Later, on my way to the restroom, I discovered a lower level, but I was glad to have been seated upstairs, as it offered a wonderful ambiance.
The meal itself was a journey of bold and exciting flavors. I started with the agriki aloo tikki chaat, a potato-based dish bursting with vibrant spices and textures. As a delightful surprise, the waiter brought out a box of assorted poppadoms in various shapes and textures, accompanied by three distinct dipping sauces—an imaginative and delicious touch.
For my main course, I opted for the chicken tikka chops with mint chutney and onion salad. The flavors were already excellent, but I couldn’t resist experimenting with some of the poppadom sauces, which elevated the dish even further.
To round off the meal, I chose a trio of kulfi scoops for dessert, paired with an espresso. Just when I thought the experience was complete, the waiter presented a palate cleanser—an aromatic mix of fennel seeds with sweet and salty elements that left a refreshing finish.
Oorja, which fittingly means energy, strength, and power, truly lives up to its name. It’s been a long time since I’ve had a meal with such an incredible depth of flavor. I can’t...
Read more🌟 A Burst of Flavour at Oorja – A Must-Visit Indian Gem! 🌟
If you’re on the hunt for authentic Indian cuisine with a modern twist, look no further than Oorja Restaurant! From the moment you walk in, the warm ambiance and inviting vibes set the stage for an unforgettable dining experience.
Let’s talk food – the biryani is hands down the best I’ve had in the UK! Perfectly spiced, fragrant, and served with a flair that’ll have your taste buds dancing. Don’t miss the crispy pappadams as a starter – they’re light, crunchy, and the perfect way to kick off your meal.
And oh, the cocktails! 🍹 Creative, refreshing, and beautifully presented – each sip is a delight. Whether you’re a fan of the classics or up for trying something new, their bar menu has something for everyone.
The staff? Friendly, attentive, and passionate about what they do – which makes the whole experience even more special. Oorja isn’t just a restaurant, it’s a celebration of Indian food done right.
Highly recommended for date nights, group dinners, or just treating yourself to something delicious. I’ll definitely be back – and next time, I’m trying everything I...
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