Dishoom – the national Indian restaurant chain known for its creamy black daal and Chicken Ruby curry – has opened a fourth Permit Room in the UK with this Notting Hill site on Portobello Road. The Permit Room is a drinks-led extension of the Dishoom brand, with the Indian restaurant group seeking to recreate the vibe and style of Bombay's iconic ‘permit rooms’ - establishments that emerged during the city's prohibition era.
There are currently three Permit Rooms across the UK, including in Brighton, Cambridge and Oxford, but Notting Hill is the first time the group has brought its all-day bar and cafe concept to London. Taking over a four-storey Victorian property that was previously occupied by the Portobello Gin Distillery, Londoners can expect big things (literally) from this posting in the capital.
Diners can expect a keen focus on cocktails and sharing plates, from a Mango Lassi Punch to a Kiwi Colada Shimmy. Sharing dishes include things like lamb samosas, chilli chips, and spicy chaats, while those looking for something a little more filling can to choose from its signature curries, biryanis and naan breads. There's also a dedicated ‘sweets’ list, featuring coconut caramel custard, and ice cream sandwiches in flavours like Tutti Frutti and rose ripple.
Those visiting for breakfast can expect a selection of naan rolls filled with the likes of eggs, bacon and pork sausages, alongside cooked breakfasts and lighter options.
Drinks will focus on cocktails, spanning a range of highballs, short and boozy options, twists on classics, frozen drinks and cocktails ‘On the Rocks’.
Dishoom Permit Room Portobello is also the first site in the group to feature accommodation. The top floor features a boutique apartment called Permit Room Lodgings, where up to four guests can stay for a minimum of two nights.