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Shot by a City Insiders curator.
The Tamil Crown
★ 4.0(1 review)Bar
cozycasuallocal-crowd
About the Vibe
Prince Durairaj (of Roti King fame) has brought his Tamil Nadu expertise to Islington with The Tamil Crown, a spot that feels like a calmer, more spacious cousin to his Barnsbury predecessor. The old Charles Lamb pub has been transformed into a two-floor venue where you can grab a pint by the ground-floor fireplace or dine upstairs in a traditional setting. Skip the upselling and just order the beef masala uthappam—it’s an absolute standout—or try the crispy okra fries and robata lamb chops for a taste of regional classics. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, perfect for a relaxed dinner or a casual pint after work. While the prawn moilee can be a bit too coconut-heavy, the billowing roti breads are excellent and the Thanjavur chicken curry hits the spot. It’s one of those places where you’ll find yourself coming back for the food and the friendly vibe, not just the novelty of Tamil cuisine in Islington.
Known For
- •beef masala uthappam
- •crispy okra fries
- •robata lamb chops
- •Thanjavur chicken curry
- •roti breads
Best For
casual dinnersafter-work drinksgroup outings
1 review
City InsidersEditorialMarch 30, 2026
Authentic Tamil flavors in a cozy Islington setting
The Tamil Crown is a solid addition to Islington’s dining scene, bringing authentic Tamil Nadu flavors to a venue that feels both comfortable and inviting. Prince Durairaj’s reputation from Roti King and the Tamil Prince carries over here—the beef masala uthappam is a must-try, thick and spicy with a perfect balance of flavors. The ground floor’s fireplace and sofa make it a great spot for a quick bite and a pint, while the upstairs dining room offers a more traditional experience for a proper meal.
The food is generally excellent, with regional classics like the robata lamb chops and Thanjavur chicken curry holding their own. The roti breads are standout—flaky and billowing as you’d expect from someone with Durairaj’s background. If you’re looking for something different from the usual Indian fare, this place delivers without trying too hard. Just skip the prawn moilee if you’re not into coconut-heavy dishes.