Opulent New Indian Eatery ‘Bulbul’ Brings Regional Heritage to Blackfriars
London’s already world-class Indian dining scene is set to welcome a sophisticated new player. Bulbul, the highly anticipated debut international outpost from the duo behind celebrated eateries across India—including Goa, Mumbai, and Bangalore—has officially opened its doors in Blackfriars.
Located at 25 Tudor Street, the restaurant breathes new life into a historic 130-year-old printing press. The creative force behind the venture includes restaurateur Twinkle Keswani and Chef Rohan Dsouza, a seasoned professional who cut his teeth in the London culinary world working alongside the legendary Marco Pierre White.
A Study in Contrasts
Stepping into Bulbul is an immersive experience. The interior design is unapologetically lavish, defined by a bold aesthetic that features decadent brushed velvet sofas, shimmering golden napkin holders, and even a tranquil indoor water fountain. Perhaps most striking is the generous use of animal print, which lends the space a fierce, high-fashion edge.
While the surroundings feel fit for a gala, the culinary philosophy remains rooted in humbler beginnings. The menu is a curated tribute to regional Indian cooking, focusing on recipes that have been passed down through generations—many of which have never been formally written down.
From Home Kitchens to the Capital
To ensure the authenticity of these diverse regional profiles, the kitchen is helmed by a trio of chefs, each hailing from different parts of India, including Chef Dsouza himself.
The menu highlights include:
- Aunty Marie’s Goan Shrimp Balchao: A deeply personal dish brought straight from a home kitchen, capturing the elusive, authentic flavors of coastal Goa.
- Mewari Laal Maas: A signature slow-braised lamb dish featuring a bold, spiced gravy. The dish relies on Mathania chillies, a prized ingredient that grows exclusively in the arid landscape of Rajasthan, ensuring an authentic depth of heat.
Cocktails with a Subcontinental Twist
The beverage program is equally thoughtful, designed to bridge the gap between classic London bar culture and Indian botanicals. Highlights include a house Negroni elevated with nannari-infused gin and a touch of sandalwood hydrosol. The bar also boasts a dedicated section for Indian gins and a comprehensive selection of Indian single malts, catering to the capital’s growing appreciation for premium spirits from the subcontinent.
Visit Bulbul
Bulbul is currently operating in a “soft launch” phase, offering Londoners a first look at what promises to be one of the city’s most talked-about openings this year. With an official grand opening date set for September 1, those looking to secure a table should act fast.
Whether you are a connoisseur of regional Indian heritage or simply looking for the city’s next opulent dining destination, Bulbul brings a fresh, storied perspective to the Blackfriars culinary map.
