Alright ,This post is long over due .
Late last year, just before the Christmas lights took over London in all their festive glory, I had the wonderful chance to catch up with my daughter over a late afternoon lunch. We decided to meet at Pimlico Tandoori, a charming little restaurant tucked away in downtown Pimlico. Having heard about its reputation for authentic Indian cuisine and cozy atmosphere, we couldn’t wait to experience it for ourselves.
From the moment we stepped into Pimlico Tandoori , it felt like a warm embrace on a cold winter day. The restaurant, though compact, radiated a comforting and inviting vibe. Tasteful traditional Indian décor — rich tapestries, subtle lighting, and carefully chosen artwork — added an intimate and homely feel to the space. It wasn’t just a meal we were about to have; it was an experience.
The Legacy Lives On….
As we settled into our table, the proud owner came over to greet us. It was such a special touch — he sat with us for a few minutes, sharing stories of Pimlico Tandoori’s rich history. Since 1975, this family-owned gem has been weaving the essence of India into its culinary tapestry. Every word he spoke was full of pride and passion, and it made our dining experience even more meaningful. You could tell that every dish served here carried the weight of tradition and the love of generations.
The Culinary Journey Begins….
Soon, we found ourselves diving into a vibrant selection of mouthwatering snacks and drinks. We started with some crispy Papadums served with a trio of chutneys that teased our taste buds. The Tandoori Lamb Chops were perfectly cooked on the outside, yet soft and flavorful inside — just the way they should be.
For drinks, we enjoyed some refreshing mango lassis and a round of Indian beers to toast our much-awaited reunion. Each sip and bite seemed to bring more smiles and laughter to the table.
When it came time for the mains, we were spoiled for choice. I ordered the Chicken Dhansak — a classic done absolutely right, rich and creamy without being overly heavy. My daughter chose the Baby Baingon Bhaji – baby eggplants in medium spices (aubergine), which was velvety smooth and packed with bold flavors. Alongside, we had fluffy naan bread, aromatic basmati rice, and a hearty serving of Lamb Balti (Lamb cooked in chef’s special balti sauce, medium spiced)that was comfort food at its finest.
Hospitality Like No Other….
The service at Pimlico Tandoori was nothing short of exceptional. The staff was warm, attentive, and genuinely eager to ensure we had a great time. To our delight, they surprised us with a plate of complimentary Indian sweets at the end of our meal — a thoughtful touch that made our lunch even more memorable.
The restaurant might be small, but that’s exactly where its magic lies. The cozy, cohesive atmosphere created a perfect setting for heartfelt conversations and laughter. It felt like being welcomed into someone’s home, surrounded by care, love, and amazing food.
A Perfect Afternoon
Seeing my daughter so happy and excited made my day even brighter. The energy, the stories, the delicious food, and the festive spirit in the air created a memory I’ll always treasure. After our hearty lunch, we wandered off to explore a nearby Christmas market. With twinkling lights overhead, cups of hot chocolate in hand, and the flavours of India still lingering on our palates, it truly felt like the perfect afternoon.
Pimlico Tandoori delivered everything we could have hoped for — authentic, flavourful Indian cuisine, a warm and cozy atmosphere, and genuine hospitality that made us feel like part of their family. Whether you’re a local or just visiting London, this restaurant is a timeless stop on your culinary journey. I left with a full heart and an even fuller belly, grateful for an unforgettable lunch with my daughter.
Until next time, Pimlico Tandoori — thank you for the joyful memories!
