Aauja — Review by Eating With Tod
London, United Kingdom — Indian, Awadhi
Aauja, the latest opening from two Michelin star chef Aktar Islam, showcases exceptional Awadhi cuisine from northern India with meticulously prepared dishes. From an impressive seven-type poppadom basket to standout items like the malai murgh chicken leg and lamb shoulder in pastry, the reviewer considers this one of the best restaurant openings in London and potentially superior to the previously favored Gymkhana.
What was great: Incredible poppadom basket with seven varieties, golgappa, fire-roasted king prawns with fermented garlic and green mango, charcoal-cooked lamb chops, malai murgh chicken leg, tandoori butter chicken with rich gravy, oxtail biryani, and lamb shoulder cooked in pastry with mint paratha
What could improve: Nothing mentioned
The Dishes
The meal began with an extraordinary seven-type poppadom basket, immediately setting the tone for the culinary excellence to follow. The golgappa was described as absolutely insane, delivering an explosive burst of flavor like an Indian water bomb. Moving into the kebab section, the fire-roasted king prawn was enormous and meticulously prepared, resembling a lobster with its impressive size. The fermented garlic and green mango combination proved lethal in the best way possible.
The charcoal-cooked lamb chops showcased an inch-thick cut of meat that left a lasting impression. However, the malai murgh chicken leg, served with the foot still attached, emerged as a standout moment - described as easily one of the best bites of chicken ever experienced. The tandoori butter chicken arrived smoking at the table, with marinated chicken pieces cooked in the tandoor before being finished in the rich, flavorful gravy. The oxtail biryani paired perfectly with this dish, creating what the reviewer called dream-like flavor combinations. The lamb shoulder, cooked in pastry and served with mint paratha bread, claimed the title of favorite dish of the entire day.
The Experience
The restaurant delivered an impressive dining experience with theatrical presentation elements, such as the smoking butter chicken arriving at the table. The attention to detail and execution from Chef Aktar Islam's kitchen was evident throughout the meal, demonstrating why a two Michelin star chef's opening generated significant anticipation and buzz.
Value & Pricing
Specific pricing details were not mentioned in the review.
Notable Moments
Just look at the size, the attention to detail on this fire roasted king prawn. The thing looked like a bloody lobster.
Chef Aktar is an absolute wizard, and this is one of the best openings to ever happen in London.
We might have a new winner.
The Verdict
Aauja represents one of the best restaurant openings to occur in London, potentially surpassing even the previously favored Gymkhana. Chef Aktar Islam's mastery of Awadhi cuisine from northern India is undeniable, with each dish demonstrating meticulous preparation and exceptional flavor. This restaurant is essential for anyone seeking outstanding Indian cuisine and is particularly recommended for those who appreciate fine dining presentations combined with traditional Indian cooking techniques.