Seemor
Bonoo Indian Tapas HampsteadBWorth Trying
675 Finchley Rd, London NW2 2JP
· Indian restaurant, Cocktail bar, Delivery service
· 4.8/5 Google (2824 reviews)
Reservations · Delivery · Takeout
Modern Indian shared plates with standout hospitality and cocktails; delicious for many, but portions are small and pricing feels high to some.
Why it gets a B for overall quality
Bonoo Indian Tapas Hampstead delivers solid neighborhood dining through warm, celebratory service and bold, creative Indian small plates, though inconsistent execution and modest portions prevent a higher grade. The stylish interior and cocktail program enhance the experience, but occasional reports of oiliness and saltiness, combined with moderate uncertainty around review patterns, keep this at grade B—a worthwhile destination for tapas-style sharing rather than a premier dining establishment.
Restaurant Summary
Inside, the room feels warm and bustling with blossom-forward decor, a small, lively space where staff often remember returning guests. A typical comment sums it up: "They checked spice levels and surprised us with a celebration dessert," and that hospitable touch pairs with smart cocktails and a compact footprint that can feel lively on weekends. The cooking leans modern Indian tapas, with creative touches like gobi Manchurian and truffle naan alongside familiar curries, best for diners who enjoy sharing several small plates. The culinary approach leans contemporary and produce-driven: modern presentations and a few fusion cues rather than theatrics. Most meals deliver bold, satisfying flavors, though a minority report occasional oiliness or saltiness, and the small-plate format can make the bill climb. Families do fine here thanks to a bona fide kids section—think mild korma with rice, mild chicken tikka and chips, or paneer in gentle sauces. Sharing suits little appetites, but note portions are modest and some dishes run spicy unless requested mild. If your child prefers very plain fare, plan on the mild options and chips rather than the more adventurous plates.
At a Glance
- Welcoming, celebratory service that personalizes milestones
- Creative Indian small plates with standout vegetarian options
- Portions are small and costs add up quickly
- Some reports of oily or oversalted dishes and occasional timing issues
- Creative/fusion menu - not traditional comfort food
What Sets It Apart
- indian_tapas_format
- high_touch_hospitality
- strong_veg_and_vegan_range
What People Love
- Attentive staff who remember guests
- Pani puri and gobi Manchurian crowd-pleasers
- Cozy, stylish decor with a celebratory vibe
- Cocktails that match the bold flavors
Points of Concern
- Pricing feels high to some given small-plate portions
- Isolated complaints of oily or oversalted dishes and occasional burnt lamb chops
- Service timing inconsistencies reported on busy nights
- Limited options for conservative palates or picky eaters compared with traditional curry houses
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost£40-52 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- For a balanced table: Pani Puri + Aloo Tikki Chaat + Gobi Manchurian + Black Dhal + one naan
- For mild eaters: Mild Chicken Korma & Rice or Mild Paneer Tikka Masala & Rice, plus chips
- Vegetarian lineup: Kurkuri Bhindi + Shabzi Curry + Bhel + Truffle Naan
Perfect For
- Date night with cocktails and shared plates
- Small celebrations or birthdays
- Vegetarian and gluten-avoiding diners seeking variety
- Friends who like to sample many flavors
Location Insights
Area: Mixed commercial strip along Finchley Road serving locals, commuters, and neighborhood diners; casual to stylish evening crowd.
Safety: Generally safe with steady foot traffic; typical North West London main-road environment.
Nearby: Near residential Hampstead/West Hampstead catchment, retail units, cafes, and bus routes; not a heavy tourist zone.
Hampstead Garden SuburbHampstead Garden Suburb offers a village-like atmosphere with a variety of independent shops, cafes, and restaurants. The dining scene is relaxed and family-friendly, catering mostly to local residents and visitors looking for quality and comfort rather than nightlife or trend-driven venues.
Finchley Road CorridorThis stretch along Finchley Road features a mix of chain restaurants, casual dining, and some ethnic eateries, serving a steady flow of office workers and local families. It is accessible and practical, with a focus on convenience and variety rather than upscale dining.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday17:00–22:30
Tuesday17:00–22:30
Wednesday17:00–22:30
Thursday17:00–22:30
Friday17:00–22:30
Saturday17:00–22:30
Sunday17:00–22:30
Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout
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