What to Order at Colonel Saab: Best Indian Dishes from the Menu

Not Sure What to Order at Colonel Saab?

If you've ever opened the menu at Colonel Saab and paused for a moment thinking, "What should I actually order?" — you're not the only one.

With so many dishes inspired by different regions of India, the menu can feel a little overwhelming at first. And honestly, that's especially true if it's your first visit and you don't want to get it wrong.

That's exactly why this guide exists.

This guide is designed to help you:

What Should You Order at Colonel Saab? (Quick Picks)

If you just want a quick recommendation and don't want to overthink it too much, this is a good place to start:

If you go with these, you'll get a solid mix of flavours without having to spend ages deciding what to pick.

What Makes the Colonel Saab Menu Special?

What really stands out about the menu is how it brings together dishes from across India, instead of just sticking to the usual curry options you see everywhere.

You'll notice there's a mix of rich, comforting dishes alongside lighter, more regional flavours—which actually keeps things interesting and stops it from feeling repetitive.

Dishes like Gutti Vankaya, Kozhi Thenga Curry, and Nadan Meen Curry make that variety pretty clear. It's not just about eating—it feels more like you're exploring different styles of Indian cooking, all in one place.

And honestly, that's what makes it more interesting than a typical menu.

Further reading: Best Indian Food in London: Top Dishes You Must Try

Best Starters to Begin Your Meal

Starting with the right dish really sets the tone for everything that follows. Here are some of the best options to consider:

Anglo-Indian Chicken Chop:
Crispy on the outside and full of flavour inside—great if you enjoy bold starters.

Kandhari Paneer Tikka:
A popular vegetarian option with a rich texture and nicely balanced spices.

Noor Mahal Chicken Tikka
Juicy and well-marinated, ideal if you prefer classic grilled dishes.

Tandoori Broccoli:
A lighter starter, but still packed with flavour.

Zimikand & Beetroot Tikki:
A unique vegetarian option with a crisp exterior and a soft center.

If you're dining in a group, it's usually a good idea to order a mix so you can try a bit of everything.

Best Indian Curry Dishes to Try

The main course is where the menu truly shines, with a wide range of options for both vegetarians and non-vegetarians.

Non-Vegetarian Highlights

Colonel Saab's Butter Chicken
Rich, creamy, and comforting—one of the most popular choices for a reason.

Old Delhi Famous Lamb Curry
Deep, slow-cooked flavours with tender meat, perfect if you prefer something more intense.

Chicken Chettinad
A bold and flavourful dish with a stronger spice profile.

Nadan Meen Curry
A lighter curry option with a different, more delicate flavour.

Further reading: Best Indian Restaurant in London: A Local Food Lover's Guide

Vegetarian Highlights

Gutti Vankaya
One of the standout dishes on the menu, known for its depth and rich flavour.

Corn Methi Palak Malai
Creamy and mildly spiced—great when you're in the mood for something smooth and comforting.

Saag-E-Pukhtan
If you prefer something more wholesome, this is a solid option with a rich, satisfying texture.

Chef Sohan's Confit of Cauliflower:
A more refined vegetarian dish, with a preparation style that feels a bit different from the usual.

If you're unsure, pairing one classic dish with one unique option usually works really well—and it gives you a better sense of the menu overall.

Further reading: Royal Indian Cuisine, Reimagined: Chef Sohan Bhandari's Most Luxurious Dishes

Hidden Gems Worth Trying

Some of the best dishes on the menu are easy to miss—especially if you're just scanning quickly. If you feel like trying something a bit different, it's worth looking at a few options that don't always get picked first:

These dishes tend to offer something a little more distinctive. If you're in the mood to go beyond the usual choices, they're definitely worth considering.

Biryani, Breads & Sides to Complete Your Meal

A well-rounded meal isn't complete without the right accompaniments.

Biryani Options

Both work really well as standalone dishes, but they're also easy to share if you're ordering a few things for the table.

Indian Breads

Garlic Naan pairs well with almost every curry on the menu.

Sides

Rice balances rich curries, while naan is perfect for scooping.

Best Desserts to End Your Meal

A great meal deserves a proper finish—and this is where the menu really does a good job of offering a mix of flavours and textures.

Pineapple Jalebi
Crispy and sweet, with a bit of a unique twist.

Rasmalai Milk Cake
Soft, rich, and quite indulgent—especially if you enjoy something creamy.

Dark Chocolate Silk Cake
A solid choice if you're leaning towards something chocolate-based.

Mango Kulfi Falooda
Refreshing and layered, with a mix of textures that keeps it interesting.

Kochi's Coconut Pannacotta
Light and smooth, which makes it a nice option after a heavier meal.

What to Order Based on Your Visit

For Date Night

If you're planning something a bit more relaxed or special, this combination works well:

For Groups

When you're ordering for a table, it's usually better to mix things up a bit:

For Vegetarians

There are plenty of good options to choose from if you prefer vegetarian dishes:

Final Thoughts

Dining at Colonel Saab is about more than just choosing a dish—it's really about exploring a menu that brings together different Indian flavours in one place.

If you're unsure what to order, it doesn't have to be complicated. Starting simple usually works, and mixing familiar dishes with something new often makes the experience more interesting. And honestly, it's worth leaving a bit of room for dessert.

Ready to Experience It?

Take a look at the full menu and book your table when you're ready—you'll get to try some of the best Indian dishes in London in a setting that's designed to be enjoyed, not rushed.

FAQs

What is the best dish at Colonel Saab?

Colonel Saab's Butter Chicken and Gutti Vankaya are among the most popular choices.

Is Colonel Saab good for vegetarians?

Yes, the menu offers a wide variety of vegetarian dishes with strong diversity.

What should I order for the first time?

Start with a mix of starters, one classic curry, and one unique dish.

Does Colonel Saab have biryani?

Yes, both chicken and lamb biryani options are available.