Wandering through London with a proper craving and thinking, “Where can I find the best kebabs […]
Roomali Roti (V)
About This Dish
Roomali Roti is a soft, ultra-thin Indian flatbread made from refined flour. Traditionally cooked on an inverted tawa or dome-shaped griddle, the dough is kneaded until smooth and elastic, then expertly rolled and stretched by hand to achieve its iconic handkerchief-thin texture—the rolling process is a delight to witness in itself. It’s quickly cooked over high heat, resulting in a light, pillowy bread that remains flexible, soft, and feather-like. Known for its subtle flavour and airy consistency, Roomali Roti is ideal for mopping up rich gravies, wrapping kebabs, or accompanying grilled meats. Its delicate feel makes it a popular choice for those seeking a less heavy alternative to naan or paratha.
At Biryani Kebab Chai London, we prepare our Roomali Roti fresh to order, ensuring it retains its soft, warm texture—perfect for pairing with our signature curries and tandoori dishes.
History & Tradition
Roomali Roti traces its origins to the royal kitchens of North India, particularly in Mughal-influenced cities like Delhi and Lucknow. The word “Roomali” comes from “rumal,” meaning “handkerchief” in Hindi and Urdu, referencing the roti’s incredibly thin and soft form. This bread was traditionally served in grand feasts as an elegant accompaniment to rich meat dishes and kebabs.
Cooked on a hot, inverted iron wok over an open flame, the technique requires both skill and speed, reflecting the precision typical of Mughlai cooking traditions. Today, Roomali Roti remains a popular flatbread across India and is now enjoyed globally in Indian restaurants, especially as a stylish and lighter bread option.
What Makes It Special
What sets Roomali Roti apart is its lightness and flexibility—offering a perfect balance between form and function. Unlike thicker, more robust breads, Roomali Roti is thin enough to fold or roll without tearing, yet strong enough to scoop up heavy dishes. The speed at which it’s cooked ensures it stays soft and warm, with a slightly smoky finish from the griddle.
Its paper-thin consistency lets the flavours of accompanying dishes shine, thus being an ideal companion for bold, spiced gravies or juicy kebabs. Visually impressive and texturally refined, Roomali Roti adds a touch of finesse to any Indian meal.
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Ayesha Khan
The Roomali Roti at BKC is absolutely perfect. Soft, thin, and delicate—just like it should be. It reminded me of the roti from weddings in Lucknow. It pairs beautifully with kebabs and korma, soaking up all the flavour without feeling heavy. A proper touch of home and tradition, done just right in London.
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James Bennett
Tried Roomali Roti for the first time and I was so impressed. It’s incredibly light and soft, yet strong enough to scoop up the thick curry I had. So different from the usual naan. It felt elegant and authentic, like something you would find in a proper Mughal feast. Will definitely be ordering again.
OpenTable
Sophie Matthews
This bread is a total game changer. The Roomali Roti was beautifully thin and soft, and had a lovely smoky taste from the tawa. It worked so well with the chicken tikka and dal. Way more delicate than a typical flatbread, and really brought everything together. You can tell it’s made with care and skill.
FAQs
A: No, Roomali Roti is soft, thin, and flexible—not crispy. Its delicate texture is part of what makes it special.
A: Roomali Roti goes well with most Indian dishes—like Butter Chicken, Rogan Josh, Paneer Masala, Chicken Tikka, and Seekh Kebabs—thanks to its soft, foldable texture.
A: Unlike naan, which is thick, chewy, and oven-baked, Roomali Roti is much thinner, softer, and cooked on a hot griddle, offering a lighter alternative.
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Introducing: Thalassery Biryani – Kerala’s Coastal Classic!
From the spice-laden shores of Malabar comes a biryani unlike any other. The Thalassery Biryani is Kerala’s fragrant ode to trade, travel, and tradition — made with small-grain kaima rice, whole spices, and slow-cooked lamb that melts like memory. It’s the kind of dish that carries the scent of monsoons, coconut groves, and Sunday lunches at home.
At BKC, we honour that legacy with care — layering kaima rice with tender lamb, golden onions, and coastal warmth. No colour. No shortcuts. Just pure flavour, sealed and served in true dum style.
Available Friday to Sunday – Biryani Bharat Yatra | July Edition
BKC Soho – 8 Moor Street, W1D 5ND
BKC Marble Arch – 7 Edgware Road, W2 2ER
#bkcflavors #londoneats #biryani #desikhana #eeeeeats #vegetarian #yummy #halal #bkcflavors #food #foodstagram #foodstagramming #instafood #foodloversindia #eatdelicious #foodies #foodiesofindia #tastemade #yummy #love #halalfood #biryanilovers #keralagram #biryanilovers #dumbiryani #keralagram #malayali #keralafood #viral #viralfood
Monsoon, Maach and More – A Feast of Memories!
When it rained, school shut down and joy poured in. We’d fold paper boats, chase them through puddles, and return home to the smell of begun bhaja and aloo chop crackling in mustard oil. Monsoon meant Ma in the kitchen, the comfort of fried snacks, and the promise of something warm on the plate. Come Rath Yatra, the streets turned into a carnival — with mochar chop, pakoras, and laughter shared under umbrellas!
And then came the fish — silver-flecked hilsa, golden prawns, whole river pabda — caught fresh and cooked slow. That mustardy whiff in the air? Pure nostalgia. On 27th July at BKC Soho, relive it all with a soulful feast: from Kolkata Fish Fry and Mochar Chop to Sorshe Ilish, Chingri Malai Curry, Murgir Jhol, and oven-warmed Baked Rasgulla with its molten sweetness. It’s not just a meal — it’s your childhood plated with love!
📍 BKC Soho – 8 & 9 Moor Street, London W1D 5ND
Only On – 27th July | Book now on OpenTable
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The BKC Lunch Box – Tradition, Packed to Go!
Inspired by the dabba culture of India, our BKC Lunch Box is a midday escape into nostalgia. From office desks to leisurely afternoons, it brings the warmth of home-style food with the finesse of Awadhi technique — thoughtfully packed, generously portioned, and full of flavour.
Choose from hand-pounded kebabs, slow-cooked biryanis, rich curries, and comforting dal — all crafted fresh and served with our signature bread or rice. Quick lunch? Yes. Compromise? Never.
Available Monday to Friday, 12PM–4PM
BKC Soho – 8 Moor Street, W1D 5ND
BKC Marble Arch – 7 Edgware Road, W2 2ER
#bkcflavours #londoneats #awadhifood #awadhicuisine #food #foodie #indianfood #biryani #foodgasm #foodporn #kebab #foodstagram #lucknow #instafood #goodfood #authenticfood #lunchtime #lunchbreak #lunchbox #lunchtime🍴#viral #viralpost #halalfood #halal
Biryani. Beer. Bottomless. Let That Sink In!
Forget bottomless gossip and burnt toast — this is how you actually do brunch. Dum-cooked biryanis (Awadhi Chicken or Subz Dum), served hot and heavy. Kingfisher on tap, flowing for 90 glorious minutes. Spice in the plate, sparkle in the pint. Boom — your weekend just got upgraded.
And guess what? It’s not just for weekends. We’re pouring pints every day from 12PM to 5PM. So whether you`re shopping, working, hungover, or just hungry — pop in, sit back, and let the biryani + beer combo do its thing.
BKC Soho – 8 Moor Street, W1D 5ND
BKC Marble Arch – 7 Edgware Road, W2 2ER
2-Course Bottomless Brunch | £29pp
Best deal in Central London – endless beer, endless flavour!
#bkcflavors #londoneats #biryani #desikhana #eeeeeats #vegetarian #yummy #halal #bkcflavors #food #foodstagram #foodstagramming #instafood #foodloversindia #eatdelicious #foodies #foodiesofindia #tastemade #yummy #love #halalfood #lucknow #bottomlessbrunch #bottomless #viral #viralreeĺs
Beer, Biryani & a Bengali Farewell!
There’s something magical about a Kolkata Biryani — the golden aloo, the tender chicken, the heady notes of rose and kewra rising from the sealed handi. It’s more than a meal — it’s memory, emotion, identity. And this weekend, we pair that nostalgia with ice-cold, golden Kingfisher on tap.
Calling all Bengalis: it’s the last weekend to relive your Sundays in Kolkata. Come for the biryani, stay for the sips — a farewell tribute to a dish that carries a city in every bite.
Only at BKC Soho – 8 Moor Street, W1D 5ND
And BKC Marble Arch – 7 Edgware Road, W2 2ER
Available Friday to Sunday – this weekend only. Kindly Book In Advance - When it`s gone it`s gone! Hurry!
#bkcflavors #londoneats #biryani #desikhana #eeeeeats #vegetarian #yummy #halal #bkcflavors #food #foodstagram #foodstagramming #instafood #foodloversindia #eatdelicious #foodies #foodiesofindia #tastemade #yummy #love #halalfood #biryanilovers #kolkatabiryani #biryanilovers #dumbiryani #kolkata #bengali #bengalifood #viral #viralfood
Beat the Heat — With Beer, Biryani & Kebab!
When the UK turns up the heat, we turn to what we know best — the perfect pour and the perfect plate. Our chilled Kingfisher beer on tap is golden, crisp, and frothy — the antidote to a blazing summer day. Pair it with smoky kebabs and fragrant biryani, and you’ve got a match made in spice-and-suds heaven.
From melt-in-mouth galouti and fiery Kingfisher Fish Fry to slow-cooked dum biryani, our kitchen delivers bold Awadhi flavours that sing with a cold pint by their side. Every bite cools the soul, every sip builds the mood — it’s the only kind of heatwave we welcome!
Visit Us At:
📍BKC Soho – 8 Moor Street, London W1D 5ND
📍BKC Marble Arch – 7 Edgware Road, London W2 2ER
#bkcflavors #londoneats #food #foodie #indianfood #foodstagramming #ınstafood #foodlovers #yummy #foodgasm #eatdelicious #viral #virałpost #londonrestaurant #londonrestaurantguide #londoneating #timeoutlondon #lotiloves #londonloves #kingfisherbeer #lagertime #beersoftheworld #halal #kebabs #biryanilovers #beattheheat
Counting Down – Just a Few Weekends Left for Kolkata Biryani at BKC!
Back by popular demand and already stealing hearts, our Kolkata Biryani is halfway through its run — and if you haven’t had it yet, now’s the time. The aloo’s still there, the flavours are still soulful, but it won’t be around for long.
Think: fall-off-the-bone chicken, golden potatoes, long-grain rice perfumed with kewra and rose — all slow-cooked in a sealed handi the way Kolkata intended. No colour. No compromise. Just comfort and craft in every bite.
Available Friday to Sunday, for the rest of June:
BKC Soho – 8 Moor Street, London W1D 5ND
BKC Marble Arch – 7 Edgware Road, London W2 2ER
Don’t wait — the final weekends are ticking away!
#bkcflavors #londoneats #biryani #desikhana #eeeeeats #vegetarian #yummy #halal #bkcflavors #food #foodstagram #foodstagramming #instafood #foodloversindia #eatdelicious #foodies #foodiesofindia #tastemade #yummy #love #halalfood #biryanilovers #kolkatabiryani #biryanilovers #dumbiryani #kolkata #bengali #bengalifood
For the First Spoon, and Every One After!
There’s something unforgettable about the way Dad fed you your first bite — patient, proud, full of love. At BKC, we honour that quiet magic with food that carries memory in every grain and every spice. This Father`s Day, let the taste of home and heritage bring you back to where it all began.
Celebrate the man who never let your plate go empty — with hand-pounded kebabs, slow-cooked biryanis, and chai that lingers like his warmth. Whether it’s a shared meal or a gift of flavour, make it count with BKC’s soul-stirring fare.
📍BKC Soho & BKC Marble Arch | Sunday, 16 June
• BKC Soho : 8 & 9 Moor Street, London - W1D 5ND
• BKC Marble Arch - 7 Edgware Road, Tyburnia, London W2 2ER
#bkcflavors #biryani #food #foodie #indianfood #foodstagramming #ınstafood #foodlovers #eatdelicious #foodies #tastemade #yummy #love #weekendindulgence #flavoursofindia #heritage #tribute #reverence #viral #viralreels #viralvideos #halalfood #halal #kebab #father #fatherandson #fathersday