Photo: Indulge in the classic South Indian delight! Masala Dosa served with flavorful lentil sambaar and fresh coconut chutney, filled with a deliciously spiced potato bhaji—a perfect combination of taste and tradition.
A Visionary Approach to Indian Cuisine
Café Spice Namasté by Cyrus Todiwala offers an unforgettable experience with innovative Indian dishes, impeccable service, and a strong emphasis on sustainability—showcasing the rich diversity and heritage of Indian cuisine.
Few chefs have reshaped the perception of Indian cuisine in the UK as profoundly as Cyrus Rustom Todiwala. Known affectionately as the “godfather of Indian cookery,” Todiwala combines decades of culinary expertise with a relentless passion for innovation. A specialist in showcasing regional Indian flavours through dynamic and inventive recipes, his ethos balances authenticity with modernity—allowing traditional dishes to take on new identities without ever losing their soul.
From his early years mastering his craft in fine kitchens for The Taj Hotels Resorts and Palaces group in India, to becoming a celebrated restaurateur in London, his journey has been one of constant evolution. Café Spice Namasté, founded in 1995, became a London institution, renowned for its creative dishes, sustainable practices, and impeccable hospitality. Beyond the restaurant, Cyrus’ culinary achievements include a range of condiments and sauces as well as several celebrated cookbooks that continue to inspire chefs and home cooks alike. His accolade-packed career includes the distinct honour of cooking for Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip during the Diamond Jubilee—an accomplishment befitting his monumental contributions to Indian cuisine.
A perfect blend of bold flavours, innovation, and ethical dining, Café Spice Namasté redefines how Indian cuisine is experienced.
A Modern Indian Experience at Café Spice Namasté
Café Spice Namasté, now located at Royal Albert Wharf, offers more than just food—it’s an invitation to experience modern Indian cuisine through the eyes of a culinary virtuoso. The new setting, nestled alongside the Thames docklands, seamlessly blends contemporary design with subtle touches that remain rooted in Indian heritage.
Atmosphere at Café Spice Namasté
Stepping into Café Spice Namasté feels like entering a sanctuary for food lovers. The interior pairs industrial aesthetics with vibrant, homely features that speak to the restaurant’s ethos—a mix of tradition, creativity, and approachability. Exposed ductwork and sturdy metal frames are softened by warm wood furnishings and green accents, while splashes of colourful tiles add personality and charm. Potted plants sit gracefully on the tables, complementing the earthy tones of the space. The combination of clean, elegant décor and understated luxury immediately establishes a welcoming and contemporary vibe.
Lighting plays its part brilliantly—warm and golden, it lends a soft glow to the room, while a gleaming bar area adorned with blue backlight injects a playful vibrancy. This balance of refined comfort and lively energy creates a setting perfect for enjoying Cyrus Todiwala’s culinary vision.
Café Spice Namasté shines brightest when it comes to service. Passionate, professional, and warm staff ensure each guest feels valued and cared for from the moment they step in. Cyrus himself was active in the kitchen during my visit, while his wife, Pervin Todiwala, presided over the front of house with warmth and grace. Her engaging presence brings the restaurant to life; she greeted guests, shared anecdotes about the menu, and checked on diners with genuine sincerity—an element of hospitality that felt personal and rare.
The rest of the team mirrored Pervin’s warmth, offering attentive service, insightful recommendations, and seamless management of a bustling dining room. The pace of service was remarkably efficient despite the high volume of diners.
A Culinary Legacy on the Plate
Café Spice Namasté’s menu, much like Cyrus Todiwala’s philosophy, is a testament to the diversity of India’s culinary traditions. It celebrates bold flavours while incorporating fresh ideas that elevate the dining experience. Every dish tells a story, and every bite feels intentional, crafted with care and creativity.
Masala Dosa: A South Indian Classic Reinterpreted
A beloved staple from South India, the Masala Dosa at Café Spice Namasté is nothing short of perfection. Thin and crisp with a delicate golden hue, the dosa arrives stuffed generously with a rich potato bhaji. What truly elevates the dish is its pairing—an aromatic lentil sambaar packed with layers of flavour and a creamy, refreshing coconut chutney so vibrant it feels almost like a dessert. Every element, from texture to seasoning, is refined and balanced, making this dish a standout for its authenticity and finesse.
Keralan Chicken Biryani: Kerala’s Spirit Captured in a Clay Pot
Presented in a rustic clay pot, the Keralan Chicken Biryani emerges as an edible work of art. Fluffy basmati rice, fragrant with saffron and spices, is layered over tender chicken marinated with shallots, yoghurt, and aromatic whole spices. Crispy fried onions and fresh coriander garnish the dish, lending both texture and vibrancy.
The sides gave added depth—cool, creamy raita brought relief from the warmth of the spices, while a ginger-tomato chutney added a punchy, tangy accent that perfectly complemented the biryani’s flavours. Every forkful was a reminder of why biryani remains one of India’s most cherished dishes: it is a symphony of intricate layers, textures, and spices that surprise and delight the palate.
Other Highlights
For those willing to explore beyond the classics, the Goan Prawn Balchão, with its fiery coastal roots, and the Paneer Jhalfrazi, a vibrant vegetarian option, showcase Cyrus’ ability to celebrate Indian regional cuisine with flair. The Queen Scallops with Masala Scrambled Eggs represents the restaurant’s innovation: seafood executed beautifully, with spices adding a defining richness to its natural sweetness.
What sets Café Spice Namasté apart isn’t just Cyrus Todiwala’s bold and creative approach to cooking; it’s his unwavering commitment to ethical practices. Ingredients are thoughtfully sourced, with sustainability woven into the heart of the operation—from minimising food waste to collaborating with local producers. Dining here feels like supporting a movement as much as savouring a meal—a rare and commendable dynamic that underscores the restaurant’s ethos.
Café Spice Namasté is more than a restaurant; it’s a living testament to Cyrus Rustom Todiwala’s vision for a modern Indian dining experience. Thoughtful interiors, exemplary service, and an innovative menu unite to deliver an unforgettable evening, seamlessly blending hospitality with culinary creativity. Whether you’re familiar with Indian cuisine or exploring it for the first time, Café Spice Namasté offers a window into the diversity, richness, and brilliance of Indian flavours, paired with a passionate ethos of sustainability and care.
Café Spice Namasté is one of London’s most enduring culinary institutions for a reason. Cyrus and Pervin Todiwala’s relentless dedication to excellence transforms a meal into an experience rich with flavour, passion, and purpose. Highly recommended for anyone wishing to explore Indian cuisine with a modern flourish.
EDITOR’S NOTE:
Modern Indian by Cyrus Todiwala is an outstanding cookbook that masterfully reimagines Indian cuisine with creativity and flair. Featuring recipes such as Queen Scallops with Masala Scrambled Eggs, Prawn Balchão, and Saffron & Pistachio Ice Cream, each dish is a flavour sensation. Perfect for intimate gatherings or grand celebrations, Cyrus effortlessly combines tradition with innovation to create dishes that are both sophisticated and inspiring. His skill and passion resonate throughout, making this book a culinary gem. A must-have for food enthusiasts seeking unforgettable feasts and a modern twist on Indian cooking.
