Fitzrovia's culinary landscape has been set ablaze with the arrival of ADOH, an intimate Indian restaurant that's rewriting the rules of subcontinental dining in London. Helmed by the exceptionally talented chef Manoj Thakur, this 28-cover establishment offers a dining experience that feels both deeply authentic and refreshingly modern.
A Chef's Journey from Humble Beginnings
Manoj Thakur's culinary story reads like something from a food lover's dream. Growing up in a small Himalayan village, he learned cooking fundamentals from his grandmother before embarking on a journey that would see him master his craft at some of India's most prestigious hotel kitchens. His London tenure includes notable positions at Tamarind and Gymkhana, where he honed his skills in elevated Indian cuisine.
The ADOH Dining Experience
Step into the warm, minimalist space on Great Portland Street and prepare for a culinary adventure. The restaurant's name, meaning 'the beginning' in Hindi, perfectly captures Thakur's philosophy of returning to cooking's essential roots while embracing contemporary techniques.
Signature Dishes That Dazzle
The menu showcases Thakur's extraordinary talent for balancing bold flavours with delicate precision. Standout creations include:
- Chicken Tikka Pie: A revolutionary take on British comfort food, featuring succulent spiced chicken encased in flaky pastry
- Lamb Chop Galouti: Tender lamb chops served with the melt-in-your-mouth galouti kebab, a Lucknowi specialty
- Wild Mushroom Biryani: A vegetarian masterpiece where earthy mushrooms meet fragrant, perfectly cooked rice
- Pistachio Kulfi: The perfect finale - a rich, creamy frozen dessert that celebrates traditional Indian sweets
An Intimate Setting for Memorable Meals
With only 28 seats, ADOH offers an exclusive atmosphere that feels both sophisticated and welcoming. The design combines clean, contemporary lines with subtle Indian influences, creating a space that complements the food without overwhelming it. This is the perfect spot for everything from romantic dinners to small celebrations where the food truly takes centre stage.
Why ADOH Stands Out in London's Crowded Food Scene
In a city saturated with Indian restaurants, ADOH distinguishes itself through Thakur's unique approach. Rather than chasing trends, he focuses on perfecting classic techniques while introducing thoughtful innovations. The result is food that feels familiar yet exciting, traditional yet contemporary.
'I want guests to taste the India I know and love,' Thakur explains, 'but through a lens that makes sense for today's diner. It's about respecting tradition while not being bound by it.'
Located at 5 Great Portland Street, ADOH represents a significant addition to central London's dining options. It's that rare restaurant that manages to feel both special occasion-worthy and completely approachable - a place where every dish tells a story of heritage, innovation, and pure culinary passion.
