The Flavourful Journey of Asma Khan from Kolkata to Soho, London!

The world of the food industry has often been seen as a space mostly dominated by men, with only a few women making it to the top. But then there’s Asma Khan, a woman who’s completely flipped that idea 360 degrees! Born in Kolkata and now serving delicious Indian cuisine in London, her journey is nothing like the dreamy situation you might expect. Her rise to fame isn’t just about cooking; it’s a story of passion, empowerment, and the unforgettable flavours of her roots. It continues to inspire countless women globally. The most iconic part? She didn’t move to London with dreams of becoming a chef—she went there to study law! Sound interesting, right? Let’s take a look at her inspiring journey, full of twists and turns, that led her to become one of London’s most celebrated chefs.

Journey From Kolkata to London

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Born into a family of royal heritage in Kolkata, Asma Khan grew up surrounded by a culture where sons were traditionally preferred. But it was her mother’s strength and the bond between the women in her family that formed the cornerstone of Asma’s future. Despite the societal preference for boys, Asma found empowerment through women’s solidarity—an influence that would shape her entire career.

In 1991, Asma moved to London to pursue law at King’s College, eventually completing her PhD in 2013. Yet, deep down, there was always a whispering voice that nudged her toward a different path. The kitchen, where her childhood was steeped in culinary tradition, always called out to her. Her love for food, especially the recipes passed down through generations in her family, was undeniable.

Her journey to becoming a chef wasn’t a smooth one. The food industry, especially in the UK, lacked mentors who looked like her, and as Asma once said, “You cannot be what you cannot see.” But she pressed on. She wasn’t just going to let her dreams fade into the background. She started to host intimate supper clubs at her home in 2012, initially inviting only a handful of guests. Little did she know that this humble idea would soon become the very foundation of her future success.

Darjeeling Express: A Dream Turned Reality

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In 2017, Asma took the plunge and opened Darjeeling Express, her own restaurant in the heart of Soho, London. But it wasn’t just the authenticity of her dishes that set her apart; it was the uniqueness of her all-female kitchen. The women she employed weren’t traditional chefs with formal training. Many of them were homemakers or domestic workers who had never worked in a restaurant kitchen before. Asma’s mission was not only to offer incredible Indian food but also to empower these women and give them a sense of purpose and financial independence.

The name Darjeeling Express was a tribute to the flavours and culinary influences of Asma’s Bengali roots and her travels across India, capturing the essence of the subcontinent in every dish. The restaurant's success grew rapidly, with word-of-mouth turning it into one of the must-visit destinations in London. The food wasn’t just delicious; it was a celebration of Indian culture, steeped in history and served with warmth and love.

But no success story comes without challenges. Asma faced a fair share of struggles, including racism and scepticism from the public. Yet, a glowing review from food critics gave Darjeeling Express the boost it needed to gain traction and attract more diners. What followed was nothing short of a whirlwind.

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Asma Khan’s story didn’t stop at opening a restaurant. It went on to inspire millions. In 2019, she made history by becoming the first British chef to feature on the global culinary platform Netflix’s Chef’s Table. This spotlight, which showcased her innovative approach to cooking and her all-female kitchen, brought international recognition to her restaurant. Her feature introduced millions of viewers to her incredible journey and the power of food as a unifying force.

But the spotlight didn’t end there. Asma’s culinary brilliance caught the attention of British royalty—King Charles III and Queen Camilla, during one of their visits, were so impressed with her signature chicken biryani that they requested to take some home. Talk about royal approval!

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Asma displayed remarkable resilience. Her restaurant, like many others, faced closure due to lockdown restrictions. But Asma didn’t back down. She pivoted, continued her work with the community, and used her platform to support charity work and help those in need. Her charity, the Second Daughters Fund, works to tackle the gender discrimination faced by female children in India, helping them access education and a better future.

Asma also became an author, releasing two cookbooks: Asma's Indian Kitchen (2018) and Ammu (2022). These books celebrate her culinary heritage and showcase her love for traditional Indian recipes with a modern twist.

Her contributions were recognised globally when, in 2024, she was named one of TIME’s 100 Most Influential People. A testament to her unwavering dedication and the impact of her work in the culinary world, especially for women in the kitchen.

A Restaurant that Dosen't only Serves Food

Darjeeling Express stands out not only for its exceptional food but also for its focus on empowerment and community. Asma Khan’s all-female kitchen, made up of women often in their 50s and 60s, brings generations of wisdom and warmth to each dish. Many of these women had never worked in a formal kitchen before but learned under Asma’s mentorship, transforming their lives and gaining newfound confidence. For them, working at Darjeeling Express was not just a job but a chance to reinvent themselves.

The restaurant’s move to Covent Garden marked a major milestone, offering guests a larger space and the opportunity to witness the magic happening behind the scenes. In 2023, Asma’s restaurant returned to its original Kingly Court location in Soho, with a bigger space and an open kitchen where diners can watch her talented, all-female team at work. Asma Khan’s journey from Kolkata to London is proof that passion and perseverance lead to success, no matter your starting point. Her story celebrates women’s strength and shows how food can bring people together. If you have a dream, take inspiration from Asma—no dream is too big, and no challenge is too tough. Your journey could be as extraordinary as Darjeeling Express!