We had visited had visited "Noorjahan 2" off Sussex Gardens a few weeks ago and really enjoyed it so we were keen to give it's sister restaurant a go especially as it had the reputation as the great and good's favourite local indian. After a hard day watching the mighty Chelsea turn over West Ham and with a pregnant wife with a craving for curry we thought we would pop down to Gloucester Road to give it a go. We fancied an early meal so lovely my wife had booked us in for 7pm. When we arrived the restaurant was empty apart from one other couple. We were shown to a table in the window which wasn't ideal but my wife was comfortable so we didn't move. There were lots of staff on duty suggesting they would be very busy later on. As it turned out they were fully booked as various people came in looking for tables and were turned away.
The menu is the same as "Noorjahan2" so lots of nice dishes on there. My wife when for the butter chicken whereas I had the house special chicken Tika massala. We ordered sides of Saag Aloo, peshwari nan and pilau rice. I was quite surprised that it all came to our table really quickly. Not ideal as I was hoping for more leisurely dinner. The food was nice but very creamy and rich. I finished mine but my wife only had half her butter chicken. The Saag Aloo was very nice though. To follow we had my wife's favourite Gulab Jamon which was good but not as nice as "Noorjahan 2's" version. We washed this down with a large cobra and still water.
All in all pretty good but I did feel a bit rushed and it seemed various locals were getting a lot more attention than us. We were finished and out by 8:15 which is really too speedy. They seemed very keen to turn the tables yet it was only half full when we left. One area it did have the edge on "Noorjahan 2" is the decor, it looks sleek and modern which sets a nice tone. I don't think I would bother going back if I was in the area as I feel the nearby "Star of India" does better food and ambience. Maybe various stars go here but I feel there are better places out there where your custom will be a bit more valued.
Tuesday, March 16, 2010
Overall rating
Food 7 | Service 6 | Atmosphere 7 | Value for money 7
Yes The Star of India is the best place to go by far
