Gunpowder Tower Bridge

Husband-and-wife restaurateurs Harneet and Devina Baweja opened cult restaurant Gunpowder in 2015 to long queues and heaps of critical praise. Now, three years later, the couple have opened the Indian small plate joint’s first sequel.

Transported from scruffy Spitalfields to the gleaming One Tower Bridge development, it’s fair to say that Gunpowder’s newer space has lost some of its rough-and-ready charm. The thrown-together feel of the tiny original has been swapped for a much slicker vibe, combining leather banquettes, plaster-washed walls and 70s-style tiling. It’s also much larger and split over two floors, although a fantastic team of well-drilled staff manage to keep the atmosphere friendly.

Signature Gunpowder dishes have been joined by some excellent new additions. Don’t miss the moreish Madras-style chicken lollipops – essentially a moderately spicy chicken winglet, in which the bone acts as a makeshift lollipop stick (no fussing around with knives and forks here, thank you very much).

Fans of the original restaurant will be relieved to know that the classic dishes still pack a mighty punch. Gunpowder’s take on a toastie oozes with cheese, chutney and tongue-tingling spices, while the melt-in-the-mouth kashmiri lamb chops will have you licking the bones clean like a ravenous caveman. For dessert, try the Indian take on bread and butter pudding, pepped up with a shot of rum. You’ll also find booze elsewhere in the form of spice-laden cocktails, but there’s masala coke for the non-drinkers.

Affordable, fun and delicious, we think that this second Gunpowder is just as tasty as the first, and the larger space means bookings are accepted. No more waiting outside in the cold then.

Gunpowder Tower Bridge is a modern Indian restaurant offering a menu of contemporary small plates and regional dishes, located a short walk from one of London’s most recognisable landmarks. Found on Duchess Walk, the restaurant sits within the One Tower Bridge development, an area known for its riverside apartments, cultural venues and close proximity to both Tower Bridge and the Tower of London. Its position on the south side of the Thames places it near Potters Fields Park and within easy reach of London Bridge, Bermondsey and the wider South Bank.

The restaurant is part of the Gunpowder group and presents a more spacious setting than its original Spitalfields site, with a dining room designed around clean lines, warm tones and views towards the surrounding development. The atmosphere is relaxed but polished, making it suitable for both casual meals and more formal dining.

The menu focuses on modern Indian cooking, drawing inspiration from family recipes and regional traditions while presenting dishes in a contemporary style. Plates are designed for sharing, with options such as Kashmiri lamb chops, Chettinad pulled duck, venison doughnuts, soft-shell crab, grilled prawns and a range of vegetarian dishes. The kitchen also offers larger plates and seasonal specials, reflecting the group’s emphasis on bold flavours and high-quality ingredients. Desserts follow the same approach, combining Indian influences with modern presentation.

The drinks list includes wines, beers and cocktails chosen to complement the spice-led menu, along with non-alcoholic options. Its location near major attractions and offices makes it popular with both visitors and local workers.

With its riverside setting, inventive Indian dishes and contemporary design, Gunpowder Tower Bridge offers a distinctive dining experience within one of central London’s most vibrant neighbourhoods, blending modern cooking with a setting that reflects the energy of the surrounding area.