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Colonel Saab High HolbornA-Worth Trying

Name: Colonel Saab High Holborn
Address: 193-197 High Holborn, London WC1V 7BD, London, United Kingdom
Rating: 4.8

193-197 High Holborn, London WC1V 7BD · Indian restaurant, Cocktail bar, Dessert restaurant · 4.8/5 Google (5590 reviews)

Reservations · Delivery · Takeout

Polished Modern Indian with standout hospitality and a creative streak; great for celebrations, but pricing is premium and service pacing can vary.

Why it gets an A- for overall quality

Colonel Saab delivers exceptional food quality with modern Indian cooking that balances sophistication and approachability, supported by warm, attentive service and striking art-filled interiors. However, inconsistent execution on certain dishes and afternoon tea items alongside occasional pacing challenges prevent grade A territory. Premium pricing and timed seatings suit special occasions, making it a competitive choice among London's better neighborhood restaurants.

Restaurant Summary

Stepping off Holborn into Colonel Saab feels like entering a private museum of Indian memories—walls layered with art, chandeliers glowing, and staff who are often warm and attentive. Guests call out servers by name and describe hospitality that feels personal, with one diner noting service that was spot on and caring. Most evenings hum along comfortably, though a few report pacing glitches and time-limited tables that can feel a bit rushed near the end. The cooking leans Modern Indian—recognizable flavors with a polished, contemporary hand. Think rich yet balanced butter chicken, excellent fish tikka, and tasting menus that tour regions with dishes like kadhi mousse and rose-scented desserts. This is not a curry-house greatest-hits; it is a composed experience with thoughtful pairings and a solid bar program. When it clicks, plates sing; occasionally an item lands less gracefully, especially on the afternoon tea lineup, but overall the kitchen shows confidence without unnecessary theatrics. Families are generally welcome—staff have accommodated babies, spice levels are adjustable, and familiar staples like naan, rice, and mild curries keep younger diners happy. There is no heavy reliance on super-spicy dishes, making it approachable. Just be mindful that it is a premium setting with timed bookings at peak hours, and special-occasion add-ons may not always be complimentary; plan accordingly for a smooth, kid-friendly meal.

At a Glance

Elegant, art-filled setting that feels special
Warm, named service with thoughtful recommendations
Modern Indian menu with creative touches and solid classics
Premium pricing with 12.5% service; portions can feel modest
Pacing and time-limited tables can feel rushed at peak

What Sets It Apart

art-filled_interiors_with_story
indian_twist_afternoon_tea
curated_tasting_menu

What People Love

Personal hospitality from named servers
Balanced butter chicken and excellent fish starters
Gorgeous, story-rich interiors
Curated tasting menu and strong bar program

Points of Concern

Service pacing and acknowledgment can lag at times
Afternoon tea items vary in quality; scones and payasam divide opinion
Premium checks, time-limited tables, and deposits surprise some guests
Isolated safety/allergen mishaps reported; confirm nut handling carefully

Service & Dining Experience

Service StyleTable Service Average Cost£45-62 per person ReservationsRecommended

What to Order

For value at lunch, choose any Tiffin set (£23.95-24.95) and add a shared starter.
Dosa fans: opt for Chicken Chettinad or Prawn Moilee dosa (£24.95) for a richer main.

Perfect For

Celebration dinners with cocktails
Date night near Holborn/Covent Garden
Tasting menu explorers
Business lunches with impressive decor

Location Insights

Area: Central London business district with theatres and offices; draws professionals and visitors.

Safety: Busy, well-lit streets with steady foot traffic; generally safe.

Nearby: Near Holborn Station, legal district, Covent Garden fringe; strong pre-theatre and celebration traffic.

HolbornHolborn offers a dynamic dining scene catering to professionals from nearby law firms and offices, as well as students from nearby universities. The area balances historic charm with modern eateries, featuring a mix of casual lunch spots, traditional pubs, and upscale restaurants. It is busy during weekdays with a professional crowd and quieter on weekends.

Practical Information

Opening Hours

Monday12:00–15:00, 17:30–22:00 Tuesday12:00–15:00, 17:30–22:00 Wednesday12:00–15:00, 17:30–22:00 Thursday12:00–15:00, 17:30–22:00 Friday12:00–15:00, 17:30–22:00 Saturday12:00–15:00, 17:30–22:00 Sunday17:00–21:00

Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout

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