Tayyabs London
Mind-blasting curries
Mark from London
Mention curry and the East End in one sentence and many people will think of Brick Lane, also known as ‘Bangla Town’. There’s a concentration of curry houses on the southern end of this iconic street but the touts trying to lure you into the restaurants with special deals are a giveaway; most of these places are mediocre at best.
I’ll therefore swerve Brick Lane and head a bit further south towards Whitechapel where you’ll find the legendary Punjabi run Tayyabs. I'll go weak at the knees at the aroma of the sizzling platters of marinated lamb chops and shami kebabs that hits you upon entering and you’ll notice a steady flow of waiters bringing these out... (tip: order the lamb chops!). The curries come out in karahis (small wok-like vessels) and are so incredibly satisfying – rich with ghee and expertly spiced. Aside from the dry keema curry which I’ll often order, the vegetable dishes such as sag paneer (spinach) and dahl with aubergines are superb. Service is brisk – often a bit too brisk, as they try to turn tables in order quash the queues that inevitably form. It’s also worth noting that as this is a Muslim-run establishment, they don’t serve alcohol, but you can bring your own to drink without corkage. Bonus!
London Spotter Mark
About this spot
Our London City Guide
Find your way with 286 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
Loved it? Join us!
Loved this Spot?Join your international community. Share your favs and become part of our international community!
Nice place right!? There’s so much more to discover:
Discover all other hidden gems in London
Rochelle Canteen
Creative Cuisine in East London
It's always been magical to press the discreet buzzer and walk into the quiet brick-walled garden of Rochelle Canteen, leaving gritty East London behind.
by
Ramona
Liberoff
Crown Café
Family owned café on Strand
In an area full of chains, visit the family-run Crown Café. I'm a big fan of their sandwiches & their pastel de nata and they make a great cup of tea.
by
Danielle
Broadhurst
Aux pains de papy
Best croissants in London
They have an array of all the classic pastries you’d expect from a French bakery, from pain au chocolat & croissants to my favourite croissant aux amandes.
by
Angelina
Ivanova
Wellcome Collection
Let's talk about health
Their Reading room is a mix between a gallery and a library with books and lots of places to sit and read or do some work on your laptop.
by
Angelina
Ivanova
The Barbary
North African small plates
The Barbary pays homage to the culinary traditions of the countries from the Atlantic Coast through to the Mediterranean Sea leading to the Middle East.
by
Angelina
Ivanova
The Nickel Cinema
Rebel Cinema in Clerkenwell
The Nickel Cinema is a 37-seat gem that revives NYC grindhouse spirit with little-known films and a vintage-filled bar. Unmissable for true film lovers!
by
Ramona
Liberoff
E Pellici
First class fry-up
A beloved East London classic, E Pellici offers hearty Italian–English food, strong coffee, and warm family-run charm to a lively mix of locals and visitors.
by
Ramona
Liberoff
The Derby
Oval's one-stop pint shop
The seats are comfortable, the lighting dark & despite its clear disinterest in hyper-trendiness, after dark The Derby manifests a brilliant dive bar vibe.
by
Harry
Thompson
Kew Gardens
Botanical garden paradise
"Kew Gardens" is the famous UNESCO world heritage site in Southwest London. It's great to visit for its plants, flowers and Christmas festivities!
by
Ellie
Swain
Richmond Hill
Dreamy riverside sunsets
"Richmond Hill" is my sunset-gazing of preference in London. The 20-minute train ride from Waterloo station is worth it for the view alone...
by
Ellie
Swain
Vagabond Wines
Pay by the glass
"Vagabond Wines" is the new wine trend in London. It's the perfect place to pick and choose different kinds, and you pay by the glass. Tasters available!
by
Ellie
Swain
Heading to London?
286 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
... for just €9.99
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 286 Insider Tips
✓ Escape the Crowds
✓ Find Spots nearby
✓ Authentic Stories
... for just €9.99
City guides by those who know the city in and out!
Our Locals' Favorite London
Our team loves London
Get to know our other Spotters from London
As featured on:
