Babur, a long-standing restaurant on Brockley Rise in Forest Hill, has been named among the UK's top 100 Asian restaurants in the 2026 guide compiled by the Asian Catering Federation (ACF). The recognition comes as the restaurant celebrates its 41st anniversary this year.
Recognition in the 2026 ACF Guide
The ACF guide, first launched in 2022, is based on public votes and recommendations from the federation's expert panel. It recognises establishments ranging from Michelin-starred restaurants to independent neighbourhood favourites. Babur's inclusion in the guide marks another milestone for the business, which has been serving the Forest Hill community since 1985.
Owner Emdad Rahman said the accolade reflects the hard work of the entire team and the restaurant's long-standing relationship with the local community. "Being recognised in the Top 100 is a real honour for our whole team," he said. "Babur has been part of the Forest Hill community since 1985, and we're incredibly proud to have built such a longstanding relationship with our local guests over the years."
Finalist at the Asian Curry Awards 2026
In addition to the ACF guide, Babur has been named among the finalists at this year's Asian Curry Awards 2026. It is one of 16 venues from across the region to make the prestigious shortlist. Babur joins other local finalists including Panas By Sujan Katuwal MBE, Saffron Club and The Khans Indian Restaurant in Blackheath, as well as iNaga in Bromley and The Bombay in Swanley.
The south-east London eatery has established itself as one of the area's best-known Indian restaurants, combining regional influences, traditional cooking techniques and seasonal ingredients with a contemporary approach to Indian cuisine. Among its signature dishes are crab bonda, made with tempered blue crab meat dumplings, Chicken Chettinad served with a rice pancake, and a slow-cooked lamb shoulder marinated for 100 hours in a Punjabi spice blend.
Milestones and Events
Earlier this year, Babur marked four decades in business with the release of its cookbook, 40 Years of Flavour, which celebrates the restaurant's history through recipes, archive discoveries and stories from its journey in Forest Hill. Alongside its food offering, the restaurant regularly hosts collaborations and events. This summer, Babur partnered with the Horniman Museum & Gardens to create a special menu inspired by herbs and botanicals grown in the museum's gardens, marking the restaurant's 41st anniversary and the museum's 125th year.
Looking ahead, guests can expect a wine dinner featuring Spanish producer Valtravieso on 27 October, while Diwali celebrations will take place from 6 to 8 November with a special tasting menu and live performances. Mr Rahman said Babur has always been committed to showcasing the diversity of Indian cuisine while continuing to innovate. "We've always been passionate about celebrating the diversity of Indian cuisine through thoughtful, creative cooking, while continuing to evolve and give people new reasons to visit," he said. "It's wonderful to see that commitment recognised."
