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The Tamil Prince
★ 4.0(1 review)Restaurant
trendyspicylocal-favorite
About the Vibe
Tucked into a former pub in Barnsbury, The Tamil Prince delivers some of the most exciting southern Indian food in London. Chef Prince Durairaj (formerly of Roti King) brings serious brio to Chettinad lamb curry and zesty Thanjavur chicken, all served in a smartly attired space with dark walls and weathered wood floors. The huge puffed chana bhatura alone is worth the trip, but don't skip the buttery roti—this is the kind of place where knowledgeable locals actually go for a reason.
Known For
- •Chettinad lamb curry
- •Chana bhatura
- •Buttery roti
- •Southern Indian cuisine
Best For
group dinnersspice loversdate night
1 review
City InsidersEditorialApril 13, 2026
Southern Indian fire in a Barnsbury gem
The Tamil Prince has quietly become one of Barnsbury's most talked-about spots, and for good reason. The space itself is a converted pub with character—dark walls, weathered bare-wood floors, and a bamboo-shielded terrace that feels properly local rather than touristy. You'll want to arrive hungry because the food is serious southern Indian cooking with real heat and depth. The Chettinad lamb curry is a standout with its exhilarating spicing and tender meat, while the chana bhatura is basically a showstopper in bread form. The buttery roti is perfection and should absolutely be ordered. Service is warm and the whole operation feels run by people who genuinely care about the food.
It's not perfect—the space is intimate so it can feel cramped when busy, and the 90-minute table limit mentioned in some reviews can be a bit much for a leisurely meal. But the quality of the cooking more than makes up for any quirks. This isn't fusion or compromise; it's confident, regional Indian cooking that respects its roots while feeling fresh and exciting. If you're looking for somewhere that feels like it was made for locals who actually know their food, this is it.