Dining at Colonel Saab in Holborn is like stepping into a luxurious Indian haven where elegance meets culinary artistry. A place with an opulent atmosphere that feels both intimate and celebratory, Colonel Saab offers a vibrant immersion into Indian flavours and heritage. From chandeliers that cast a warm glow to vintage Indian decor and soft jazz that fills the air, every detail in the setting evokes sophistication. This charming venue, centrally located just a five-minute stroll from Shaftesbury Theatre, is ideal for a pre-theatre meal or a leisurely evening of indulgence. This is my fourth visit to Colonel Saab which I consider the best Indian restaurant in London. I recently experienced Colonel Saab’s Mrs. Doubtfire Experience Menu five-course meal (£60 per person), a special collaboration with Shaftesbury Theatre.
This unique menu is a delightful homage to the humour and warmth of the film, featuring playful yet refined dishes inspired by the iconic character Mrs. Doubtfire. Each dish is crafted with creativity, blending traditional Indian elements with fresh, modern twists. One of the lovely waiters comes around dressed as Mrs Doubtfire during the meal making the experience more immersive.
The Cocktails & Amuse Bouche:
The experience begins with the Chacha 420, a refreshing cocktail featuring Maxton dry gin infused with butterfly pea tea, fresh mint, and vanilla syrup. Edible silver dust adds a whimsical sparkle, making it as visually delightful as it is delicious. The amuse-bouche, “Help is On The Way, Dear!” (named after one of the famous quotes off the Mrs Doubtfire movie), is a roasted cumin muffin that provides a warm, subtly spiced start to the meal.
Starters:
Guests can choose from a selection of inventive starters that each pay homage to classic Indian street food. The Doubt Everything Khubani Aloo Tikki Chaat combines crispy aloo tikki with apricots and a trio of tangy sauces, creating a layered burst of flavours. For something bold yet familiar, the Noor Mahal Chicken Tikka serves tender chicken with dill and lime, a twist on the classic tikka. Each dish is named with a playful nod to the film, adding to the menu’s charm.
Mains:
The main courses, titled Colonel Saab’s signature dishes, showcase the essence of Indian home-style cooking with a refined touch. Gutti Vankaya, an Andhra-style curry with baby aubergines in tangy tamarind gravy, is an indulgent choice for vegetarians. The Poppet’s Paneer Pakeezah presents soft paneer in a royal, creamy sauce topped with silver leaf, a treat for lovers of rich Indian cuisine. For those craving something seafood-based, the Effortless Elegance Prawn Mollee offers succulent prawns in a delicately spiced coconut milk curry, while the Dear’s Delight Butter Chicken brings boneless chicken morsels in a velvety tomato and cashew gravy, a true classic that doesn’t disappoint.
Dessert:
The dessert course offers a prelude with Drive-by Fruiting Cheese Ice Cream, a refreshing palate cleanser. The main dessert, Layered in Love Mishti Doi Cheesecake, is a caramelised, indulgent treat that blends traditional Indian mishti doi (sweet yogurt) with the rich texture of cheesecake, a perfect finale to a luxurious meal.
Colonel Saab’s Mrs. Doubtfire Experience Menu is a rare, delightful pairing of theatre and dining, leaving diners with a warm, memorable experience that blends culture, flavour, and nostalgia. It’s a must-try for anyone looking to make their evening out truly unforgettable.
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