Darjeeling Express to upsize in central London

Asma Khan's Darjeeling Express restaurant will relocate from Kingly Court to 38-40 Rupert Street in the coming months. 

Known for its all-female kitchen, Darjeeling Express has again partnered with Kingly Court landlords Shaftesbury Capital as it embarks on its next phase of growth.

Having operated in Kingly Court since 2017, Khan's business is now moving into a larger 5,600 sq ft space with 130 covers in Soho and will share Rupert Street with a revered selection of operators, including The Palomar, Evelyn’s Table and Speedboat Bar. 

“I’m so proud of how far Darjeeling Express has come in the last few years – what started as a passion project for me has become a mainstay of Indian dining in London, and a successful example of female empowerment in hospitality," says Khan. "As we continue to grow, Shaftesbury Capital has supported us with a space that allows our all-female team to remain front and centre, while taking the next step in our exciting journey.”  

The announcement from Shaftesbury follows the news that Italian restaurant Padella has signed for a 2,300 sq ft space at 2 Kingly Street. Led by Jordan Frieda and chef Tim Siadatan, the team also behind acclaimed north London restaurant Trullo, the signing marks Padella’s first West End location and will feature its signature menu of eight seasonal pasta dishes. 

You may also be interested in…