From Amritsar to London
Our Story
A taste of home, away from home
Kulcha Express was born from a simple yet powerful longing — the desire to recreate the authentic flavours of Amritsar's vibrant street food culture in London. In 2017, our founding family, all hailing from the culinary heart of Punjab, noticed something missing in London's diverse food scene: truly authentic Amritsari kulchas served fresh from the tandoor, just as they are in the narrow gallis of the Golden City.
"We didn't want to just make another Indian restaurant. We wanted to transport people to the streets of Amritsar with every bite — that perfect blend of crispy, buttery kulcha with the rich, aromatic chana that can only come from recipes passed down through generations."
- Founding Family
- Founding Family
What began as a modest family-run establishment in Southall quickly captured the hearts (and taste buds) of the community. The secret was simple: uncompromising authenticity, recipes guarded and perfected over generations, and the conviction that food isn't just sustenance—it's a powerful connection to heritage and home.
Our Journey
From our first Kulcha in Southall to becoming a beloved culinary name across England, here's how our story unfolded.
2017
Where It All Began
Opened our first restaurant in Heston, London, bringing authentic Amritsari kulchas to the community. Our small kitchen quickly became a local favorite, with lines forming out the door on weekends.
2018
Expanding Our Reach
Following the incredible response, we opened our second branch, expanding our presence in West London and introducing even more people to our authentic Punjabi cuisine.
2020
Rising to the Challenge
Despite the pandemic, we pivoted to serve our community, providing over 70,000 meals to NHS frontline workers and vulnerable families. Our kitchen never stopped, even when our dining rooms closed.
2021
Award-Winning Excellence
Recognized as the Best Vegetarian Restaurant of the Year in London for the second consecutive year, cementing our reputation for exceptional quality and authentic flavours.
2022
Brand Recognition
Awarded Indian Restaurant Brand of the Year, marking our growing influence in Britain's culinary landscape and recognizing our commitment to preserving authentic Punjabi cuisine.
2025
Seven Strong and Growing
Today, with seven thriving locations across England, we continue to share our passion for authentic Amritsari cuisine, with plans for further expansion in the coming years.
Our Culinary Philosophy
At Kulcha Express, we don't just serve food; we preserve traditions, honour techniques, and celebrate the rich culinary heritage of Amritsar.
Fresh Per Order
Every kulcha is prepared fresh upon order, rolled by hand and baked in our traditional tandoor—never pre-made or reheated.
Guardian of Secrets
Our chana masala follows a closely guarded recipe brought directly from the streets of Amritsar, with a proprietary blend of 12 spices.
Masterful Technique
Our chefs train extensively in the authentic techniques that give Amritsari cuisine its distinctive character and unmistakable flavour
The Story Behind Our Signature Dish
Our Amritsari Kulcha Thali has a special place in our hearts and on our menu. When our founding family first arrived in London, they searched everywhere for the distinct taste of home—that perfect kulcha with its crispy exterior and soft, flavourful filling. Finding nothing that matched their memories, they recreated the recipe themselves, perfecting it through countless trials until they achieved that unmistakable balance of spices, textures, and aromas that transport you straight to the lanes of Amritsar.
Our Community Impact
Food has the power to bring people together, and we're committed to making a positive difference in the communities we serve.
Supporting Our Community
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Kulcha Express rose to the occasion by partnering with organizations such as Hope for Southall Street Homeless and World Cancer Care to provide food for frontline workers, hospitals, and vulnerable individuals for two consecutive years.
In collaboration with Khalsa Aid, we delivered over 70,000 meals to NHS workers, along with weekly food parcels for vulnerable families. We also provided thousands of hot meals to stranded drivers in Dover during the crisis, ensuring that no one was left without support in such unprecedented times.
70000+
Meals for NHS Workers
1000s
Food Parcels for Families
