The inspiration behind Dishoom for co-founders Kavi and Shamil Thakrar, were the Iranian cafes in Bombay, opened by immigrants in the early 20th century; as outsiders themselves, they welcomed everyone – no matter what caste, class or creed.
The spacious upstairs Salon overlooking St. Andrew Square is authentically furnished in Art Deco period style, with antique dressers, chandeliers, mirrors, fans and faded photographs. The artistic theme draws together Indian heritage with the life and work of Patrick Geddes, the Edinburgh scientist and town planner, a frequent traveller to Bombay.
The dining room, divided with glass screens, has window tables with bentwood chairs, as well as green leather banquettes, reminiscent of a railway carriage. Open from breakfast to late night cocktails, the atmosphere is vibrant and buzzing …..perhaps just like the Iranian cafes.