4500 miles from Delhi, Oxford

Post

Subscribe

Is it really 4500 miles from Oxford to Delhi? A good question to ask as you head into this Indian restaurant for what is likely to be a good, reasonably priced meal.

They offer a hearty lunch buffet which would make a great way to break up a day's sightseeing. You can choose two or three courses, the difference being the addition of a dessert.

Starters are the usual array of poppadoms and chutneys, with a variety of meat and vegetable dishes in the main buffet.



For the main course, there are some basic curries, with a variety of meats and heats to suit different tastes. A dahl and some vegetable dishes, along with rice, help to bulk it up and cater for vegetarians. Naan is brought to your table. It's not the best I've had, being rather greasier than I would expect, but it certainly helps soak up the curry sauces.



The choice has been different every time I've gone. Given that it's a buffet, you're always going to find something you like. This year they have changed the buffet around, and the range is definitely not as good, but is still adequate. You can go up as often as you like and each as much as you like, so it's a good way to get a substantial meal and try a variety of dishes.



Dessert is an ice cream, to share. It's very pleasant (if a little difficult to eat with the fork provided), but not really worth the extra cost.



A few issues crop up, as with any buffet. The dishes and serving utensils get very hot under the lights, so be careful when serving yourself. It's advisable to go earlier in the service (e.g. 12:30), when the food is fresher.

If you go for the normal menu, or in the evening, then there is a good range. With very flexible table arrangements, it's a good place to go for a quiet meal for two, or in a large group looking for a hearty party. The menu is extensive, the prices very reasonable.

They describe the kitchen as 'open plan' and 'theatre' style. It's certainly true that diners can see over the counter to the kitchen, which may help engender both trust and interest in the food preparation. A well-stocked bar makes sure everyone gets their tipple of choice, but they are always willing to bring a jug of tap water over too.



Takeaways are also offered, with cheaper prices at certain times of day. This isn't documented on their website though, so you may need a leaflet, or just to phone and check what they are offering.

If you want to book, do so by telephone. They are not good at responding to emails or online booking requests. Service in general is reasonable. The staff are friendly, but can be a bit slow to respond. Lunchtime is relaxed, so a great time to go for a leisurely catchup with a friend. Things are much busier in the evening.

Both Oxford and Bristol have a branch, and in Nottingham it's 4550 miles from Delhi, as Nottingham is, of course, further north. Each branch has a very different feel though, so they don't feel like a chain.

#near_oxford
#lunch
#indian_restaurants
#dinner
#buffet
#restaurants
%wnoxford