A Taste of South India in Soho

Most British Indian menus lean north, all creamy curries and tandoor smoke. But the south of India tells a different story: brighter, punchier, built on coconut, curry leaves, mustard seed and a generous hand with chilli. We carry that spirit through several dishes at Saffron Soho, and they are some of the most exciting things on the menu.

Chicken 65 and Paneer 65

If you want a taste of the south in one bite, order the 65. Paneer or Chicken 65 is the South Indian favourite, crispy, deeply spiced and finger-licking, the kind of dish that disappears from the table in seconds. It is bold, a little fiery, and utterly addictive.

It makes a brilliant starter, especially for a group, and it is a clear signal that this kitchen does more than the usual curry house repertoire.

The Indo-Chinese Crossover

Southern India, and Indian cities more widely, have a love affair with Indo-Chinese cooking, and we honour it. Gobi Manchurian brings deep-fried broccoli, cauliflower and paneer into a punchy Manchurian sauce, savoury and moreish. Chilli Paneer follows the same playbook, crisp paneer tossed in a spicy sauce.

These dishes are proof that Indian food is far broader than people expect. They are vegetarian, they are bold, and they are exactly the kind of thing that surprises a first-time visitor in the best way.

Coconut, Mustard and Curry Leaf

The flavours of the south run through other corners of the menu too. Our Onion Bhaji is tempered with curry leaves and mustard seeds. Fish Goa leans on mustard seed, coconut and lime. Coconut rice and lemon rice bring that southern brightness to the table.

These are the ingredients that define coastal and southern cooking: fresh, aromatic and a little tangy, a world away from the rich gravies of the north.

How to Eat Southern Style

Southern flavours love brightness, so reach for lemon or coconut rice and a crisp, cold drink. Start with a Chicken 65, add a Gobi Manchurian to share, and follow with a coconut-rich curry for a meal that feels fresher and livelier than the usual order.

It is a different way to eat Indian food, and once you have tried it, you will look for it every time.

Come and Eat With Us

We serve the full menu straight through from midday, late into the night: until midnight, every night.

You will find us at 63 Old Compton Street, W1D 6HT, two minutes from the West End and close to Leicester Square and Tottenham Court Road.

Book a table online or call us on 020 3941 9935.