For over a decade, Dishoom has been redefining Indian dining in the UK with its Bombay tastes. The ‘bom-bae’ food is now ‘bae’ to thousands of residents here. Now, the beloved brand has gone all out on comfort and convenience as well. Permit Room Lodgings, sitting atop its all-day bar-cafe on Notting Hill’s Portobello Road, marks Dishoom’s first step into hospitality.
Permit Room Lodgings Arrives In The UK As Dishoom’s Royal Cousin
The concept of a ‘permit room’ emerged in the 1970s in Bombay, during the era of partial prohibition under the Bombay Prohibition Act. These rooms were designated spaces where people could legally drink if they held a government-issued permit. These permits were often obtained under medical pretences. They were hidden behind restaurants or bars. Soon they became discreet hubs for the middle class to socialise and drink. Over time, permit rooms symbolised a unique Bombay-specific blend of legality and cultural rebellion.
At Permit Room Lodgings, the vibe of comfort is revived across three layers: breakfast bars, relaxed dining, and the heart of the experience—the lodgings. All of this is housed in a former 1860s Victorian Pub. Here, the top floor pays homage to Bombay lodging houses and mid-century traveller pads.
Inspiration lent from the Bombay art deco jewels like Kekee Manzil and Sea Green Hotel, this property redefines comfort engulfed in royalty like no other. It was designed by Macaulay Sinclair’s Laura Newstead and features expert arched windows, parquet floors, vintage turntables, and marble bathrooms with Mauli Rituals amenities.
Also Read: Barkha Singh Revealed Her Favourite Food Spots In South Bombay!
Not Your Average Hotel
Have you ever entered the artistic yet elegant home of that well-travelled friend we all have? Now you can relive it every day with your stay at Dishoom’s Permit Room Lodgings.
With its naturally lit corners, soft-toned living spaces embraced with curated pieces like curved sofas, record players, and bookshelves of paperbacks, it is royally loyal to your comfort. The bedroom features king-sized handcrafted wooden beds. It sings the nostalgic melodies of Bentley’s Hotel in Bombay.
Bombay-Inspired Plates & Drinks Next Door
Downstairs, the Permit Room Cafe serves snacks and cocktails that are religiously Bombay-core! Their crispy spinach chaat and chicken pick-me-ups feel like a happening party, taking place right in your gut. Signature Dishoom dishes like the House Black Daal are a must-try.
For a Portobello-special touch on your tongue, try items like Permit Room French Toast and Crumpety Eggs. Try inventive cocktails like Feni Martinis and Thums Up Sazeracs.
In short, staying at Permit Room Lodgings is like a sensory journey combining royalty, comfort and good food, all in one! With the natural endurance and comfort of this homely stay, it is like a haven for any culture and nature enthusiast.
Where: 186 Portobello Road, Notting Hill, London W11 1LA Cost: £700 (₹81,000 approx) Check-in time: 3 pm
Cover Image Courtesy: Dishoom/Instagram