Taj means “crown”, which inspired The Crown of Indian Cuisine. The word comes from Persian and has been part of the languages and cultures of South Asia for centuries. For us, it’s a fitting name for a brand centred on the food traditions of northern India.

At Taj, the focus is on North Indian cooking that respects tradition while feeling at home in Johannesburg. The menu celebrates generous flavour, careful spicing and time-honoured techniques, with dishes made for sharing and meals that feel as suited to a family meal as they do to a special night out.

There’s a long history behind the food we serve. Northern Indian cuisine developed through local traditions alongside centuries of contact with Persia and Central Asia, creating influences that continue to shape many of its best-known dishes. You can still see them in kebabs, korma, biryani and naan.

The tandoor is especially important in Punjabi cooking. Its intense heat is used for breads, marinated meats and paneer, producing a very different result from slow cooking in a pot. The same precision applies to spices, where timing, temperature and combinations all affect the final dish. Cardamom may be used for fragrance, cumin for its earthiness, coriander for freshness and clove for warmth. Even garam masala isn’t one fixed recipe – its blend can change between regions, households and cooks.

At Taj, these traditions are part of what gives our North Indian cooking its authenticity.