Gurkhas Diner

Fine Nepalese cuisine in South London

our chef Krishna Shah learned his trade in Nepal where he established himself as one of the leading chefs of his generation. On arrival in London in 1992, he was appointed head chef at Balham's popular Bombay Bicycle club. In 1997, along with a partner, Krishna set up the Verandah restaurant in London's Victoria, and soon established a reputation for fine Nepalese and Indian cuisine, praised by the Evening Standard for its quality and diversity of dishes. Two years later, Krishna started the highly acclaimed Gurkha Kitchen in Reigate, Surrey, in partnership with a former officer in Gurkha regiment, wherehe worked as head chef until opening The Gurkha's Diner in Balham in 2003.

A Unique eating experience!
Nepal is the exotic and ancient mountainous Himalayan Kingdom, famous for its breathtaking scenery and beautiful and remote monasteries and temples.

Though its cuisine is influenced by the major countries that it borders, Tibet (China) and India, it features many dishes and flavourous unique to Nepal.

The heart of Nepalese meal is Daal Bhat ( Rice and Lentils) and Achar (Chutney), which accompanied by the more exotic starters, main dishes and vegetables combine to from the perfect meal.

Our restaurant takes its name from the legendary Gurkha regiment of fearless Nepalese soldiers who for nearly 200 years have fought as part of the British army.

They still carry into battle their traditional weapon - an 18- inch long curved knife known as the Khukuri though nowadays it is said to be used mostly for cooking.

Since opening a decade ago, The Gurkha's Diner has established itself as one of the finest Nepalese restaurants in London, winning accolades for its delicately-spiced and aromatic dishes, fresh ingredients (free from artificial colourings or preservatives), tranquil atmosphere and friendly and impeccable service.

The diverse menu reflects all the major Nepalese regions; however its defining characteristic is the use of fresh herb and spices prepared in-house.

Anyone who enjoys spicy food or who is familiar with a traditional Indian menu will find the Gurkha's Diner's carefully-selected repertoire of subtly-flavoured dishes to be the ultimate Asian dining experience.

Furthermore, our chef Krishna will be pleased to prepare your dishes to your own personal preferences, be it spicier or milder, for no additional charge.

In addition to the restaurant's relaxing and atmospheric dining room, the Gurkha'e provides a home delivery and take-away service that offers an outstanding Nepalese culinary experience at your maximum convenience.

We look forward to sharing a part of Nepalese culture with you and hope you will enjoy your meal.

Looks like a bog- standard Indian from the outside, but the food is anything but. I often take my family on a night off. All of the menu is great, but there are some stand-out dishes, such as the knuckle of lamb braised with chickpeas. And the chef makes peshwari Naan like nobody else can
- I'd go for those alone.
Michel Rour Jr
A Little place I know
A Guardian

We are so used to the hybrid menus at most curry house, chicken Tikka Masala etc. . .
that any eaterie innoring these cliches tends to grab attention.
From the moment you walk in, it is immediately obvious that the Gurkhas Diner is anything but a diner.
Charles Campion
Mlfood& drink
Evening standard


Imaginative, well executed Nepalese cuisine. Mains cooked in the charcoal oven include marinated Gurkhaki chicken and lamb shank cooked on the bone with gravy. Prices are reasonable.

Madeleine Lim
The Independent