Babuji

When I entered the restaurant, the first things that caught my attention were the classic floor tiles, the rattan chairs, the paintings on the walls explaining the meanings of “Babuji” and other words, and the traditional Indian music playing in the background. On the table was an interesting leaflet explaining the proper etiquette for eating with your hands. The owner was very polite, welcoming, and talkative. He handed me a thoughtfully designed menu, which explained the restaurant’s origins and its mission to promote memorable South Indian home-style food. On his recommendation, I chose the famous South Indian dish, masala dosa. Masala dosa is a thin savoury pancake filled with spicy potatoes. I had to wait a little while, but it was clearly worth it, as a freshly made dosa was soon served to me. The outer layer was paper-thin and as crisp as a wafer, while the potato curry filling inside was piping hot, soft, and immediately comforting. The owner then showed me how to tear off pieces of the dosa and scoop up the two accompanying sauces—coconut chutney and sambar, a spicy lentil and vegetable sauce. The dish was both delicious and deeply satisfying. When I first arrived, I was the only customer. Perhaps some passers-by may hesitate to come in, as the indoor lighting was quite dim, with several spotlights not working, making the restaurant look less inviting from outside. I genuinely hope more people discover this hidden gem.

3 months ago · via Google

Great flavors that are well balanced and rich, reasonably priced and portioned dishes that are good for sharing, friendly service in a clean and spacious setting. Very warm little joint in Kentish town with for you dosa craving and beyond!

3 weeks ago · via Google

great food, and very friendly staff! food took a bit long to arrive, and we were the only ones in the restaurant, but it was all worth it as the flavors were impeccable. definitely recommend 👍

5 months ago · via Google

As a Mumbaiker in a past life, stepping into Babuji does deliver a wonderful sense of home. The metal cups and dishes, old Bollywood in the background, the simplicity of the space, all bring a skilled blend of a classic Mumbai ‘hotel’ and contemporary London. The London summer evening heat adds to this nostalgia. Service was wonderful. The kachori chaat was really delicious. The chilli paneer wasn’t quite served as you’d get it in India, and didn’t stand up to the chaat. The owner did explain that they serve it differently in response to feedback from locals who want something saucier; he has a business to run after all! Shame they were out of mango lassi when we went in late in the evening. Overall a really wonderful experience that pulls my Indian heart strings. Chaat will be a fantastic discovery for anyone not familiar with this street classic.

2 weeks ago · via Google