London's culinary scene is set for a significant new arrival this spring, as a celebrated Michelin-starred chef prepares to open his first restaurant in the capital.
From Birmingham to Borough: A Culinary Landmark Arrives
Chef Aktar Islam, the mastermind behind Birmingham's groundbreaking restaurant Opheem, is bringing his talents to London. Opheem made history in 2024 by becoming the first Indian restaurant in the UK to be awarded two Michelin stars, a feat soon matched by Mayfair's Gymkhana. As of now, it remains Birmingham's sole holder of that dual-star accolade.
Islam's new venture, to be named Oudh 1722, will open on Union Street in the Borough area. The restaurant will take over the three-storey Victorian building previously occupied by Lupins, as first reported by Hot Dinners.
The Royal Inspiration Behind Oudh 1722
The restaurant's name pays homage to a rich culinary heritage. It references the northern Indian region of Awadh in Uttar Pradesh, known as Oudh during the British era until the 20th century. The opulent setting is a fitting stage for the cuisine on offer.
Oudh 1722 will specialise in the royal Mughlai cuisine of Lucknow, the historic capital of Awadh. Lucknow is one of the few cities worldwide recognised by UNESCO for its gastronomic heritage, marking this as a serious endeavour in authentic food culture.
While the full menu remains under wraps, the restaurant promises an imperial dining experience. Guests can anticipate dishes such as:
- Silken kebabs
- Intricately layered biryanis
- Richly aromatic curries
Slow-Cooked Traditions and Chef's Vision
Central to the cooking philosophy will be time-honoured, slow methods like dum pukht. This technique involves sealing meat and rice with dough and cooking it over a very low flame, allowing the ingredients to steam gently in their own juices. The restaurant states this approach "gently builds depth and flavour."
Chef Aktar Islam shared his vision for the project, stating: "Awadhi cuisine represents a rich culinary tradition I have always deeply respected, yet one rarely seen in its authentic form here in the UK. With Oudh 1722, the intention is to bring the flavours of Awadh to London, drawing on the techniques, generosity and sense of hospitality that defined the Nawabi courts of Lucknow."
Although an exact launch date is yet to be confirmed, the opening is scheduled for spring 2026. The announcement has already generated keen anticipation among the capital's restaurant critics and food enthusiasts, eager to see if Islam can replicate his Midlands success on the London stage.
