KoolBa

You're walking into Candleriggs on a Friday night and the place has got that buzz—proper full, but not chaotic. KoolBa's the kind of restaurant that doesn't need to shout about itself. The kitchen knows what it's doing with North Indian classics: tandoori, biryanis, that sort of thing. Prices sit comfortably in the ££ range, which means you're getting actual quality without the West End markup. It's the place locals come back to, not because it's Instagram-friendly, but because the food's reliable and the atmosphere feels genuine. Family groups, couples, mates catching up—everyone seems welcome here.