Thikana

On Upper Street in Islington, Thikana brings North London a confident, contemporary reading of India’s culinary map. Rooted in the heritage of Delhi yet decidedly modern, it marries bold regional flavours with stylish design. Olive-and-gold hues, rich textures and balanced lighting set a refined, intimate scene, while warm, attentive hospitality keeps the tempo unhurried. It is the kind of room built for conversation: a place where dinners stretch into the evening and every detail feels thoughtfully calibrated.

In the kitchen, tradition is honoured and reimagined. Aromatic daal shorba opens proceedings, followed by tandoori chicken with a smoky blush and pav bhaji with comforting swagger. Mains move from the depth of Kashmiri rogan josh to the silk of dal makhani and paneer lababdar, with dhaba murgh makhi offering a creamy classic, polished for the city. Perfumed murgh dum biryani and basket-fresh garlic naan and lachha paratha round out the experience, before a cooling turn to mango or malai kulfi.

At the bar, expertly crafted cocktails nod to the motherland, from the Delhi Spice Margarita to a wickedly bright Mango Chilli Martini, alongside mango lassi for the soft-spirited. With its lively yet composed atmosphere, Thikana suits date nights, casual catch-ups and full-throated celebrations alike. Consider this your next stop on Upper Street: book in, settle back and let the spices do the talking.