Aktar Islam’s Oudh 1722 brings Lucknow’s Awadhi cuisine to London, earning early acclaim at National Restaurant Awards

Oudh 1722, the debut London restaurant from Michelin-starred chef Aktar Islam, has opened, bringing the Awadhi cuisine of Lucknow to the capital. Located across three floors of a listed Victorian building in Borough, the restaurant has already drawn attention and was named One to Watch at the National Restaurant Awards within six weeks of launching.

Oudh 1722’s culinary team draws on the techniques and traditions associated with the Nawabi courts of Lucknow – a city recognised by UNESCO as a Creative City of Gastronomy. Awadhi cuisine has seldom been given dedicated focus in the UK, but here British produce is used in authentic dishes ranging from Shorba, a warm broth traditionally served to welcome guests, and naashta street-style snacks, to kebabs, slow-cooked dum plates and layered curries intended for sharing. Among the many delights is a Gilawat Kebab of finely minced lamb shoulder, a Mutanjan Dum Biryani made with oxtail and aged basmati, and Dal Sultani with tempered pigeon peas and yellow lentils. Alongside the à la carte menu, the restaurant offers the Dawaat e Khas, a feasting menu of signature dishes.

The drinks list counts in its number around 300 wines, with an emphasis on small, independent estates across both Old World and New World regions. Cocktails, served in both the upstairs lounge and the main restaurant, are often ingredient-led, like the Kasuri Martini, which is made with grain spirit, dried fenugreek leaves, lime pickle, dry vermouth and mild chilli.

The venue’s interiors were developed by designer Polina Sychova in collaboration with Islam, and interpret Lucknow’s cultural and historical legacy through a contemporary aesthetic. The ground floor reception leads into dining spaces finished in limewashed surfaces, soft upholstery and bespoke joinery, while the upstairs bar and lounge features inviting plush seating and a hand-painted ceiling. The material palette combines walnut timber with green-toned tiles and glass, referencing the garden culture of North India and traditional craft. The restaurant also incorporates antique pieces sourced directly from Lucknow.

Islam is best known as the chef behind Birmingham’s Opheem, which was awarded its second Michelin star in 2024, making it one of only two Indian restaurants in the UK – and four worldwide – to hold the distinction. Born and raised in Birmingham, Islam began working in his father’s restaurant at the age of 13 and has since developed a style that combines the culinary heritage of the Indian subcontinent with modern techniques. He has appeared on television programmes including The Great British Menu and MasterChef: The Professionals, and is also involved in mentoring and community initiatives in Birmingham.

Food Desk

To book a table at Oudh 1722, 66 Union Street, London SE1 1TD, call 020 3179 1722 or visit the restaurant’s website here.