Aktar Islam brings Michelin-grade Awadhi smoke to London’s Borough

London’s dining scene just gained a formidable contender. Chef Aktar Islam—the culinary force behind Birmingham's two-Michelin-starred Opheem—has brought his talent to Southwark with Oudh 1722. Nestled in Borough, this new establishment promises a focused exploration of Awadhi cuisine, a royal culinary tradition from Northern India known for its slow-cooked richness and intricate aromatics. While billed as a casual counterpart to his fine-dining flagship, the meticulous execution suggests otherwise.

Seasoning with Smoke and Gold

Awadhi cooking treats smoke not as a byproduct of heat, but as an essential seasoning alongside salt and pepper. At Oudh 1722, this technique shines in the Gulnaaz, a rich, tomato-heavy curry that serves as the Lucknowi answer to butter chicken. The kitchen employs three distinct methods of smoke insertion to infuse the sauce with deep, woody complexity.

The skewered offerings showcase brilliant execution. The lasooni jhinga features king prawns bathed in a mustard-garlic marinade, kissed by live coals, and infused with saffron. Equally impressive is the malai murgh, where a velvety cashew nut marinade chars beautifully over the fire, creating a superb contrast between the tender meat and caramelized exterior.

Tweezer Precision Meets Casual Comfort

While the chef champions a more relaxed environment, his high-end instincts remain clear. Petals positioned with tweezer precision adorn the plates, proving that Michelin habits die hard. Upstairs, a gorgeous hand-painted ceiling frames a cocktail bar serving inventive drinks like a mango chutney margarita, balancing sweet and savory notes with poise. The experience closes with a playful dessert channeling familiar street food sweet profiles, evoking the nostalgic crunch of peanut brittle and caramel.

The Verdict on London’s Newest Obsession

This restaurant successfully bridges the gap between high-art gastronomy and approachable warmth. It avoids the stuffiness of traditional elite dining while retaining the rigorous technical standards that put Islam on the map. For anyone seeking depth, history, and unmatched flavor intensity, Oudh 1722 is London's most essential new table.