Bombay Palace

Walk into Bombay Palace and you'll immediately get why locals keep coming back—it's got that comfortable, unpretentious vibe that makes you want to linger over a second beer. The room itself isn't trying too hard, which is refreshing; the focus stays firmly on the food. The kitchen takes their North Indian repertoire seriously: the tandoori dishes have proper char and flavour, the biryanis come properly spiced (they won't water things down unless you ask), and their naan is the real deal. It's the kind of place where regulars get proper recognition and newcomers feel instantly at home. On Crendon Street you're bang in the middle of town but somehow it feels like your own little corner.