One venue which has really captured the interest in recent times is Little India in South Gosforth. Occupying the former Bistro Neri site, this diminutive restaurant is big on charm with a friendly, family-owned vibe and the food to boot.
Its menu boasts a winning combination of traditional classics and Punjabi specialities which makes it the perfect choice for casual local diners or discerning curry connoisseurs. Little India is well placed to enjoy some fine nearby hostelries so we lamped down a few post-work beers before our meal. On a balmy Summer’s eve, its doors were swung right open affording a bright and airy atmosphere.
Son, Ziggy and his mother, Rehila really do go above and beyond and were on hand to ensure the warmest of welcomes.
Since opening in February, Little India has become a firm local favourite and was nearly full on our visit – supplemented by a steady stream of takeaway punters.
The small restaurant has a communal, convivial feel which make it easy to feel at home. Polished tabletops, wood chairs and red leather seating create a simple décor whilst a funky, Indian wall mural brings a splash of colour. Various other Indian trinkets lend authenticity whilst there’s also a fully-stocked bar featuring a neat selection of beers, wines and spirits.
We kicked off with a couple of Cobras and over poppadoms & pickles, surveyed a menu which is a little bit different. All of our old favourites were present but a host of other dishes draw heavily from the Punjab region of India and Pakistan. Of course, this is a region with a distinct culinary heritage known for its rich, spicy and buttery flavours and association with the tandoor.
My pal kicked off with the Papdi Chaat – a cold Indian street food snack. This featured crispy, whole wheat pastry loaded with diced potatoes, chickpeas and onions drizzled in an emulsion of sweet yoghurt, spiced chutney and tamarind. I chose the Chingri Tikka; plump king prawns delicately marinated with gram flour, chilli & garlic and cooked in the tandoor.
Main course offered similar variety. I chose the Murgh Handi, something of a speciality dish which originates from the chef’s home village of Dhamyal. A deeply flavoursome, saucy dish, this features diced chicken swimming in a medium hot sauce, served in a sizzling korai. Singing with homemade spices, this is a real joy for the tastebuds. Signposted on the menu as “Only for the Brave”, my friend – who can’t resist a challenge – tucked into the Chicken Tikka Madras a true classic, done well here and revved up with a barrage of hot spices. To accompany we chose a fluffy vegetable pilau and some Masala chips which showcased more delicate spicing. Naan bread is a real signature of the restaurant. Suspended from hanging skewers, these are perfect for tearing & sharing which really heightens the social experience. One between two – or even three – is advised as even seasoned troughers like us struggled with the portion sizes.
This can be your typically beery night (it usually is for us) but Little India also offers a host of unique dishes cooked with trademark Punjabi passion and flair. A quirky gem of a restaurant serving authentic food with a smile.
littleindiagosforth.com