The First Indian Restaurant in Britain

Have you heard about the FIRST INDIAN restaurant in Britain?

The Hindoostane Coffee House holds a significant place in history as the first Indian restaurant in London, and possibly the first in the Western world. Established in 1810 by Sake Dean Mahomed, an entrepreneur, surgeon, and writer from India, the restaurant sought to introduce Indian cuisine and culture to the British public. Located at 34 George Street (now 102 George Street), near Portman Square in London, the restaurant catered to an affluent clientele, reflecting its ambition to bring the flavors and traditions of India to the heart of British society.

The restaurant was designed to provide a distinctly Indian experience. Dean Mahomed advertised the space as being fitted in “the true Hindostanee style,” offering Indian-style seating and decor to create an immersive cultural atmosphere. The menu featured authentic Indian dishes and curries, which were largely unknown in Britain at the time. To appeal to local tastes, Mahomed adapted the food to suit British palates while maintaining its Indian essence. This innovative concept marked an early instance of cultural exchange between India and Britain, with Indian cuisine slowly gaining popularity among the British elite.

Despite its ambition and cultural significance, the Hindoostane Coffee House faced financial difficulties. British society in the early 19th century was not yet fully accustomed to Indian food, and the restaurant struggled to attract a wide enough clientele to sustain itself. As a result, the venture eventually failed. However, its importance as a trailblazer for Indian restaurants in Britain cannot be overstated, as it set the stage for what would eventually become a beloved part of British culinary culture.

The story of the Hindoostane Coffee House is intertwined with the remarkable life of Sake Dean Mahomed. He was not only a pioneer in introducing Indian food to Britain but also a multifaceted figure who popularized “shampooing,” a therapeutic Indian massage technique, through the opening of public bathhouses in Brighton. Dean Mahomed also authored The Travels of Dean Mahomet (1794), making him one of the first Indians to publish a book in English. His legacy as an entrepreneur and cultural ambassador between India and Britain continues to be celebrated.

Although the original Hindoostane Coffee House no longer exists, its location is marked with a plaque commemorating Sake Dean Mahomed’s legacy. The site stands as a symbol of the deep historical ties between India and the United Kingdom, as well as the power of food and culture to bridge communities.