Byker, Indian Restaurant Guide

2024 Review: “Always a favourite” – this smart Punjabi curry house is “still one of the best Indian restaurants in town”, even approaching its fourth decade; the “traditional food” is “very dependable”, having been overseen by chef-owner Bob Arora (a former regular) since the millennium.

2022 Review: “Delicious, interesting dishes” inspired by the street food delivered by Mumbai’s ‘dabbawala’ bicycle delivery men, are to be found on the menu at this brightly coloured Jesmond venue with an open kitchen and verandah. It’s a spinoff of the city-centre original.

“It is rare that male diners rave about broccoli”, but then again, the “broccoli is next level” at this “nicely decorated” and “truly unique” Quayside Indian, where “there may not be much on the menu that you recognise” (and where “it’s all about the smoke and fire” achieved by the Josper grill). Add in an “atmospheric location” and “good-value” set menus, and “this slick operation shines” – no wonder it’s always “crowded”. Top Tip – “if it’s your first visit I recommend the ‘Chef‘s Feast’ to truly grasp the range and quality of the cuisine”.

“The best food, service and atmosphere” are found at this Quayside fixture from Shelly Muktadir, who has successfully updated the classic curry house launched by her late father Ashraf Ali in 1981 – “other restaurants could learn a lot from this outstanding place”.