Despite curries not being a dish I grew up eating, these days I can't have enough of them. They are so full of flavour, satisfying and unique when compared to other dishes - so any excuse is a good one to go out for a curry.
We visit Namak in St Werburgh's because they have been shortlisted for the 'Best Restaurant in Bristol’ category of the 4th annual British Restaurant Awards. The Mina Road restaurant only opened its doors in February but, when we get there at 8.30pm on a Friday night, the restaurant is packed with diners.
Namak - the first restaurant from chef Harris Massey, who originally worked for award-winning national Indian restaurant chain Dishoom - perhaps seems to have a more limited menu than other curry houses, but nevertheless I struggle to choose.
Read next: Sunsets and seafood at new seaside Spanish tapas restaurant near Bristol
In the end, we decide to start with the usual poppadoms with homemade chutney and pickles (£3.50). The portion of poppadoms is very generous - bigger than usual - and their funky shape immediately catch your eye. They are very nice, fresh and warm.
On the other hand, the three chutneys and pickles were also flavoursome, but were disappointed by the small quantity; it felt we had a lot of poppadom per chutney/pickle ration.
We also had the 'Beef ki Shaami' (£7.50) - which were two ground spiced, minced beef patties that had been deep fried. For me, the delicate sauce was the highlight of the starter as, while the batter was good, we found the meat was a bit bland and could have done with more seasoning or spices.
We found there was a bit of a wait for our mains - the restaurant was still very busy at 9.15pm - but we didn't mind this too much as the conversation flowed and also enjoyed watching them cook. Once they arrived, the mains certainly didn't disappoint.
Both of our curries were good, generous portions and my partner's garlic naan made me jealous straight away with its strong garlicky smell. A fan of spinach, I went for the 'Saag Gosht' (£13) - slow cooked lamb with spinach and mixed spices.
I really enjoyed the dish, which I found to be perfectly spiced and with soft, tender lamb that melted in the mouth. It went perfectly with the lemon rice (£3.50) and the fig and coriander naan bread (£3), which was something different but didn't have an overpowering flavour.
I am glad I tried it, but I think next time I will stick to the garlic naan (£3), which my partner had and was full of praise for. My partner had the 'Rajasthani Lamb Curry' (£13), which consists of lamb braised and rich in spices and herbs. He also found his main to be excellent and particularly praised the amount of meat in the curry.
By the time we left we were full, with plenty leftover for tomorrow - as it should be. While I was sad to see The Cauldron close, Namak is an excellent replacement and I am sure will soon become a very strong, local choice.
Read more:
Bristol spirits producer launches new gin to mark 40 years of 20th Century Flicks
Eurovision 2023 shortlist: Bristol reacts as city ruled out as song contest host
Clifton venue launches Disney-inspired balloon installation and new ‘Brunch and Bubbles’ menu
Friendly seaside pub near Bristol serves 'perfect' beer and good value food
