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Darjeeling Express steams ahead to new upsized location in Shaftesbury Capital’s portfolio

Jan 19, 2026 at 9:07 AM UTC · Issued by Shaftesbury Capital PLC

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January 19 2026 For immediate release DARJEELING EXPRESS STEAMS AHEAD TO NEW UPSIZED LOCATION IN SHAFTESBURY CAPITAL'S PORTFOLIO Shaftesbury Capital has announced that the pioneering Indian restaurant, Darjeeling Express, will relocate within the leading West End landlord's portfolio, moving into a larger unit at 38-40 Rupert Street, in the coming months.

Founded by acclaimed restaurateur Asma Khan and celebrated for its all-female kitchen, Darjeeling Express has proven a standout addition to Kingly Court. The restaurant has partnered with Shaftesbury Capital once again, as it embarks on its next phase of growth. Launching into a larger 5,600 sq ft space with 130 covers, the new Soho location will enable Darjeeling Express to continue delivering its authentic mix of Bengali, Hyderabadi, and Kolkatan cuisine to an even wider audience.

Darjeeling Express will share Rupert Street with a revered selection of F&B operators, including the likes of The Palomar, Evelyn's Table, and Speedboat Bar. The street's repertoire of standout concepts means that Darjeeling Express is well-positioned for further success, highlighting Shaftesbury Capital's active approach to supporting and nurturing its hospitality operators.

Emma Matus, Head of Restaurant Leasing at Shaftesbury Capital, commented: "Darjeeling Express began its journey with us in Kingly Court, and we are proud to have played a role in its growth. The move to a new home within our portfolio reflects the strength of our ongoing partnership, and quality of the places we are responsible for. We are confident the team will thrive on Rupert Street, next to the likes of Evelyn's Table and Speedboat Bar, bringing an authentic and celebrated dining experience to a different part of Soho." Asma Khan, Founder of Darjeeling Express added: "I'm so proud of how far Darjeeling Express has come in the last few years - what started as a passion project for me has become a mainstay of Indian dining in London, and a successful example of female empowerment in hospitality. As we continue to grow, Shaftesbury Capital has supported us with a space that allows our all-female team to remain front and centre, while taking the next step in our exciting journey."

This announcement follows the news that Italian restaurant, Padella, has signed for a 2,300 sq ft space at 2 Kingly Street at the heart of Soho. From Jordan Frieda and chef Tim Siadatan, the team also behind acclaimed North London restaurant Trullo, the signing marks Padella's first West End location and will feature its signature menu of eight seasonal pasta dishes.

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Notes to Editors

About Shaftesbury Capital

Shaftesbury Capital PLC ("Shaftesbury Capital") is the leading central London mixed-use REIT and is a constituent of the FTSE-250 Index. Our property portfolio under management, valued at £5.2 billion, extends to 2.7 million square feet of lettable space across the most vibrant areas of London's West End. With a diverse mix of shops, restaurants, cafés, bars, residential apartments and offices, our destinations include the high footfall, thriving neighbourhoods of Covent Garden, Carnaby, Soho and Chinatown. Our properties are close to the main West End Underground stations and transport hubs for the Elizabeth Line. Shaftesbury Capital shares are listed on the London Stock Exchange ("LSE") (primary) and the Johannesburg Stock Exchange ("JSE") (secondary) and the A2X (secondary).

Our purpose

Investing to create thriving destinations in London's West End where people enjoy visiting, working, and living.

Our values

We have a set of values that are fundamental to our behaviour, decision making and the delivery both of our purpose and strategy: Act with integrity; Take a creative approach; Listen and collaborate; Take a responsible, longterm view; and Make a difference.

About Soho

Soho is a world-famous shopping and dining destination in the heart of London's West End, synonymous with culture, creativity and innovation. Made up of one square mile of vibrant interconnecting streets including the globally renowned Carnaby Street, it's home to a multi-dimensional mix of international flagships, independent boutiques and innovative, new concept stores. The epicentre of London's dining scene, its unique day-to-night hospitality offer comprises high-quality restaurants, cafés, bars and pubs.

ThisisSoho.co.uk / @ThisisSoho