Renowned chef Aktar Islam, the culinary force behind Birmingham’s two-Michelin-starred Opheem, is set to open his first London restaurant, Oudh 1722, this spring. Located in Borough Market, the restaurant will spotlight Awadhi cuisine from Lucknow, blending Persian influences and royal court traditions, marking Islam’s debut outside Birmingham with global anticipation.
One of the world’s most celebrated Indian chefs, Aktar Islam, is expanding his culinary empire beyond Birmingham. Known for Opheem, one of only two Indian restaurants in the UK to hold two Michelin stars, Islam will debut his London restaurant, Oudh 1722, in spring 2026.
Set across three floors of a listed Victorian building in Borough Market, Oudh 1722 will focus on Awadhi cuisine, a historic style originating in Lucknow and recognized by UNESCO as a Creative City of Gastronomy. The menu will feature silken kebabs, layered biryanis, and aromatic curries, prepared using traditional dum pukht slow-cooking techniques.
Islam, a Catey Chef Award winner, emphasized that Oudh 1722 will celebrate the depth and elegance of Awadhi food, offering London diners a rare chance to experience India’s royal culinary heritage.
Notable Updates and Major Takeaways
Chef’s milestone: Aktar Islam’s first restaurant outside Birmingham.
Location: Borough Market, London, in a Victorian heritage building.
Cuisine focus: Awadhi traditions from Lucknow, influenced by Persian cooking.
Signature dishes: Kebabs, biryanis, and dum pukht curries.
Global recognition: Lucknow honored by UNESCO for gastronomy.
Prestige: Islam is one of only four chefs worldwide with two Michelin stars for Indian cuisine.
Conclusion
With Oudh 1722, Aktar Islam is set to redefine London’s Indian dining scene, blending heritage, artistry, and innovation. His expansion signals a new chapter for Indian fine dining globally, where royal Awadhi flavors meet modern culinary excellence.
Sources: The Standard, Dine Out Magazine, The Caterer