In the heart of West London lies a vibrant enclave known affectionately as “Little Punjab” – Southall, a neighbourhood that has become synonymous with authentic Indian cuisine in the United Kingdom. For decades, this cultural melting pot has been drawing food enthusiasts from across London and beyond, all in search of flavours that transport them straight to the streets of Delhi, Punjab, and beyond. As we explore Southall’s ever-evolving culinary landscape in 2025, we witness both cherished traditions and exciting innovations that continue to cement its reputation as London’s premier destination for Indian food.
Southall: London’s Epicentre of Indian Cuisine
Southall’s transformation into a hub for Indian cuisine began in earnest during the 1950s, when the area witnessed the establishment of one of Britain’s first Indian shops. The influx of Punjabis who came to work at Woolf’s Rubber factory marked the beginning of a cultural shift that would forever change the neighbourhood’s identity. The late 1960s and early 1970s saw further waves of migration, particularly of Ugandan and Kenyan Asian refugees, many of whom were originally from Gujarat in India.
Today, this Zone 4 suburb in deep west London is often referred to as “mini Punjab,” a region predominantly made up of British Asians and Indians identifying themselves as Sikhs of Punjabi descent. The community’s rich cultural heritage is reflected in every aspect of Southall life, from its vibrant markets and beautiful temples to its extraordinary concentration of restaurants serving regional specialties from across the Indian subcontinent.
What makes Southall truly special is how its culinary scene has evolved while maintaining its authenticity. Unlike the “curry houses” that proliferated across Britain with standardized menus catering to Western palates, Southall’s restaurants have largely stayed true to their regional roots, offering dishes that would be recognized by anyone from Punjab, Gujarat, or other parts of South Asia. The area’s proximity to Heathrow Airport has made it a first stop for many new arrivals to Britain, further reinforcing its status as a cultural stronghold.
The Brilliant Legacy: A Culinary Institution
No discussion of Southall’s food scene would be complete without acknowledging the profound impact of Brilliant Restaurant, which stood as one of London’s most celebrated North Indian Punjabi family-run establishments for half a century. The Brilliant story began not in London, but in Nairobi, Kenya, where Bishen Dass Anand opened the first Brilliant Restaurant in the 1950s. Bishen Dass was renowned for cooking for Maharajas and Chief Ministers in Kenya, establishing a reputation for excellence that would follow the family across continents.
In 1973, due to political pressure in Africa, the Anand family relocated to the UK. Two years later, in 1975, Bishen Dass’s sons Kewal and Gulu Anand carried on the family tradition by opening Brilliant Restaurant on Western Road in Southall. What began as a modest 30-seat establishment grew remarkably over the decades, expanding seven times to become a 220-seat landmark complete with a banqueting suite and cookery school.
Under the stewardship of Gulu Anand, alongside his daughter Dipna Anand and son Shanker Anand, Brilliant became much more than just a restaurant – it was a culinary institution that showcased authentic North Indian Punjabi cuisine with distinctive Kenyan influences, reflecting the family’s East African heritage. The restaurant’s excellence was recognized far and wide, being voted as one of Ramsay’s Best on Channel 4 in 2010 and famously named as King Charles’ favourite London restaurant.
What set Brilliant apart was not just its food but its commitment to preserving time-honoured recipes passed down through generations. With over 150 years of catering expertise in the family, the restaurant became known for fresh, superbly prepared dishes that made every visit a special occasion. Under the culinary direction of Celebrity Chef and Author Dipna Anand, Brilliant earned countless accolades and an enduring reputation that extended far beyond Southall.
A Bittersweet Farewell and New Beginnings
In a move that sent ripples through London’s culinary community, the Anand family made the heartfelt decision to close the doors of Brilliant Restaurant in April 2025, after a remarkable 50-year legacy. The final day of operation was April 7, 2025, preceded by a special closing night dinner on April 4 that showcased the restaurant’s signature dishes. For many loyal patrons, the closure marked the end of an era – a place where countless celebrations, family gatherings, and everyday meals had created a tapestry of memories spanning generations.
Yet, as one chapter closed, another began. The Brilliant legacy proudly continues with the launch of a brand-new gastropub concept – Brilliant Gastro by Dipna Anand, located just five minutes from the original restaurant at Parkside Yards in Southall’s vibrant Green Quarter. This exciting new venture celebrates the rich culinary traditions of Brilliant while embracing a contemporary gastropub experience.
Dipna Anand, who has become a celebrated chef and author in her own right, leads this new chapter for the family business. Brilliant Gastro marries the bold, authentic flavors of Punjabi cuisine with contemporary Western favorites, offering a dining experience that’s fresh, inclusive, and unmistakably ‘Brilliant.’ The menu features vibrant dishes inspired by time-honored family traditions alongside creative interpretations that reflect Dipna’s passion for innovation.
“With Chef Dipna heading the kitchen, of course the food has got to be nothing less than Brilliant!” proclaims the restaurant’s website. “This is where the rich culinary heritage of India meets the comforting charm of a British gastropub. This is a space where classic recipes, passed down through generations, are showcased with some having a fresh, modern approach applied — celebrating bold flavours, quality ingredients, and heartfelt hospitality.”
Beyond Southall, the Brilliant brand continues to thrive through Dipna’s restaurant at Unity Place in Milton Keynes and a successful retail and events catering business in collaboration with The Compass Group. Brilliant dishes are now served at major venues including Chelsea Football Club, The Kia Oval, Allianz Stadium in Twickenham, and The O2, ensuring the beloved flavors reach loyal fans and new audiences alike.
Southall’s Culinary Gems: A Tour of Exceptional Eateries
While Brilliant’s transformation marks an exciting evolution in Southall’s food scene, the area remains home to numerous exceptional restaurants that continue to delight diners with their authentic offerings. Here are some standout establishments that showcase the diversity and quality of Southall’s culinary landscape:
Roxy’s
One of the oldest restaurants in old Southall, Roxy’s (formerly known as Sagoo & Takhar) has been serving generations of locals with Punjabi home cooking that’s as authentic as it gets. Nothing comes closer to the real deal than their selection of excellent parathas – aloo (potato), methi (fenugreek leaf), mooli or gobi – served with yogurt, butter, and masala tea. For those seeking comfort food, their chole bhature (fried bread with chickpea curry) is a must-try, while the saag makki di roti (spinach with corn bread) offers a taste of Punjab’s winter classics. At around £15 per head, Roxy’s provides exceptional value for an authentic culinary experience.
Rita’s Chilli Chaat Corner
Open since 1968, Rita’s is as authentic as it comes and has earned a reputation as having the best chaat in London. The restaurant buzzes with energy from lunchtime onwards, bringing together all local communities in a space that truly encapsulates what Indian food is about. Their seven signature dishes include dahi puri, chole bhatura, saag and makki ki roti, and Amritsari kulcha, alongside an extensive range of chaats that keep customers coming back for more. Expect to enjoy a fantastic array of dishes for around £10-£15 per head. Rita’s enduring popularity is a testament to its unwavering commitment to quality and tradition.
Mehfil Restaurant
For those seeking a more upmarket dining experience, Mehfil Restaurant offers fine Indian dining with good service and a cozy interior. While serving Punjabi classics and familiar Indian dishes, Mehfil distinguishes itself with specialties like Amritsari Machchi – a famous street food from the holy city of Amritsar featuring white fish coated with mixed flour and spices, fried to achieve a unique crispy texture. Other standouts include butterflied kesari king prawns cooked in a slow fire charcoal oven and murg malai kebab. Their gajrela tart, made by reducing fresh carrots in milk and ghee, provides a sweet finish to a refined meal. Dining at Mehfil is a more premium experience, with prices reflecting its fine dining approach.
Gifto’s
A meat lover’s paradise, Gifto’s is a Pakistani restaurant with roots in Lahore, the former capital of Punjab before partition in 1947. The largest restaurant on our list features modern decor and quick, efficient service. Their succulent lamb chops are said to surpass those of famous East London establishments like Tayyabs and Lahore Kebab House. The mixed grill, offering 16 pieces for just £13.50, represents exceptional value, while their tava lamb curry paired with tandoori naan showcases the depth of flavor that has made this restaurant a Southall favorite. Don’t leave without trying their excellent mango lassi.
Prince of Wales
A hidden gem away from Southall’s main streets, the Prince of Wales offers a unique dining concept – a Punjabi pub with separate drinking and eating areas. Recently refurbished, it features an upbeat atmosphere with televisions showing football and cricket, while Bhangra and Punjabi music creates an energetic backdrop. Their 16-piece mixed grill costs only £13.50, and favorites include onion bhaji, vegetable samosa, tandoori chicken, lamb curry, and daal, all washed down with Kingfisher beer. Considered by many to be the best South Asian pub in London, the Prince of Wales represents the creative fusion that keeps Southall’s food scene vibrant and evolving.
Delhi Wala
Don’t be fooled by the modest interior of Delhi Wala – this casual spot for snacks, sweets, and comfort food delivers speedy service and exceptional flavors. Their Punjabi samosa is widely considered one of the best in the UK, with a perfectly crispy exterior and well-seasoned filling, priced at just two for £1.50. Other specialties include dahi wada chaat (soft lentil dumpling with yogurt and tamarind) and chilli paneer mixed with capsicum, onions, and spicy tomato gravy. Finish your meal with rasmalai, a rich, crustless cheesecake resting in creamy milk, for a complete taste of Delhi’s street food culture.
The Enduring Appeal of Southall’s Food Scene
As we reflect on Southall’s culinary landscape today, what becomes clear is the neighbourhood’s remarkable ability to honour tradition while embracing change. The closure of the original Brilliant Restaurant, while bittersweet, has made way for new interpretations of beloved classics through Brilliant Gastro. Similarly, established institutions like Roxy’s and Rita’s continue to thrive alongside newer concepts that push the boundaries of what Indian cuisine can be in Britain.
What makes Southall special is not just the quality and authenticity of its food but the stories behind each establishment – families who carried culinary traditions across continents, recipes passed down through generations, and a community that has maintained its cultural identity while becoming an integral part of London’s diverse tapestry.
For food lovers in the UK, Southall remains an essential destination – a place where the aromas, flavors, and hospitality transport diners to the streets of Punjab, Gujarat, and beyond. As new generations of chefs and restaurateurs continue to build on the foundation laid by pioneers like the Anand family, Southall’s reputation as London’s premier destination for authentic Indian cuisine seems assured for decades to come.
Whether you’re seeking the comfort of familiar favourites or eager to explore innovative interpretations of classic dishes, Southall’s restaurants offer a culinary journey that celebrates both heritage and evolution. In the words that might well apply to the neighbourhood’s food scene as a whole: it’s nothing less than Brilliant.