At Colonel Saab, we’re passionate about showcasing the depth and diversity of regional Indian cuisine. While classics like biryani and butter chicken are beloved worldwide, India’s culinary map is filled with extraordinary dishes that remain hidden gems outside their home regions.
If you’re looking for unique Indian dishes in London, here are five from our menu that you’ve probably never heard of - but will definitely want to try.
1. Falahari Curry Kofta – A North Indian Vegetarian Classic
Our Falahari Curry Kofta is a light yet indulgent dish made with lotus stem, beetroot and raisins, simmered in a mild curry. Traditionally enjoyed during fasting periods (vrat), this dish showcases how authentic North Indian vegetarian cuisine can be both flavourful and satisfying. Rarely found on menus outside India, it’s a unique Indian vegetarian dish perfect for diners looking for something different.
2. Gutti Vankaya – Andhra’s Stuffed Aubergine Curry
Straight from Andhra Pradesh, Gutti Vankaya is a regional South Indian dish of stuffed baby aubergines with tamarind, peanuts and aromatic ground spices. Delivering the tangy, spiced balance typical of Telugu cuisine, it’s a truly authentic Indian dish rarely served in the UK, making it a must-try for fans of regional Indian cuisine seeking something beyond the usual menu.
3. Beef Pepper Fry – Kerala’s Spicy Signature
Our Beef Pepper Fry hails from Kerala, the tropical spice state of South India. This bold dish combines roasted coconut, curry leaves and Tellicherry black pepper, creating a rich, flavour-packed experience. While beef is widely enjoyed in the south, it is less common in many parts of India due to cultural and religious dietary practices. This makes Kerala-style beef dishes especially unique for Indian cuisine that you won’t find in most Indian restaurants in London.
4. Nadan Meen Curry – Homestyle South Indian Fish Curry
“Nadan” means rustic or homestyle, and our Nadan Meen Curry lives up to the name. Featuring fresh fish cooked in a coconut-based sauce with curry leaves and red chillies, this dish embodies the coastal flavours of Kerala, bringing a rich, traditional South Indian cuisine straight to your plate.
5. Chakka Varattiyathu Tart – A Modern Twist on Jackfruit Halwa
Ending on a sweet note, our Chakka Varattiyathu Tart is inspired by Kerala’s traditional jackfruit halwa. At Colonel Saab, we modernise it with a crisp tart base, Alphonso mango sorbet, raspberry crumble and playful popping pearls. This innovative Indian dessert is a creative fusion of traditional Indian flavours with modern patisserie techniques.
Discover Regional Indian Food at Colonel Saab
Exploring Indian cuisine beyond the classics is like unlocking a culinary map of the subcontinent. At Colonel Saab, our menu features regional Indian dishes you won’t find in your average Indian restaurant in London, each with a rich story and authentic heritage. Whether you’re craving North Indian vegetarian koftas, Andhra aubergine curries or Kerala seafood specials, Colonel Saab brings hidden gems of India straight to your table.
