Bombay Palace

Double dates are like a box of chocolates; you never what you’re going to get (:)). The first few that BW and I went on as newlyweds were, let’s just say, a little awkward, but I think we’re making some progress now! On Sunday, my cousin and I had agreed to double it up – our husbands have practically the exact same job (no awkward guy convo) and she’s like a sister to me (no awkward girl convo) so we agreed to meet at Bombay Palace for dinner. Once settled, the guys started shooting orders at the waiter so fast that my cousin and I had no clue what was for dinner until the food started arriving.

 

Tiny dumplings that had been soaked in yoghurt, topped with crunchy pastry flakes, and served with fruit on the side. I felt like the dumplings needed more of an oomph in terms of flavour but asides from, the rest of the dish was pleasant. The fruits, especially the watermelon, added a nice subtle sweetness to the chaat.

 

Squidgy cubes of cottage cheese that had been stir-fried with spring onions and then doused in a deliciously sticky, spicy sauce.

 

A classic order that unfortunately did not meet our expectations. Not only were the kebabs a little on the dry side, I found them to be quite lamb-y despite being flavoured with an abundance of spices.

 

Having been marinated overnight, these bright, red chicken pieces were then finished off on the grill to give a lovely char. The chicken was lovely, juicy, and packed a tandoori punch; this was my favourite dish of the night! The only thing missing was a squeeze of tangy lemon (which I’m told came on the side but I clearly didn’t see it).

 

Huge, meaty lamb chops that had been smothered in a minty, creamy marinade. Although tasting delicious, these chops were not mind-blowing and the meat did not cleanly come off the bone without a bit of struggle.

 

Gigantic, plump prawns still in their shells came sizzling to the table on a hotplate. The prawn meat was sweet with a subtle kick of Indian spices.

 

A vegetarian curry to balance out all the meaty dishes that had previously been ordered. Although delicious and creamy, this was nothing out of the ordinary.

 

A different take on the usual plain rice we’re used to. The jeera (cumin) added a nice, nutty taste with the fried onions giving a delightful crunch.

 

Thick, sweet mango lassi that been topped with crushed nuts (nice touch) but I found it could have been a little sweeter.

Completely stuffed beyond belief, we were amazed at how much we had ordered and, embarrassingly, how much we had eaten. Every plate had left the table clean with the exception of the tandoori naan. Having said that, we still opted for the dessert menus.

 

Two little cheese patties arrived soaked in condensed milk and topped with crushed pistachios. The cottage cheese and condensed milk combination made this into a rich, velvety dessert.

 

Two cone-shaped gulab jamuns arrived to the table fresh from the fryer and were deliciously drowned in a sweet, sugary syrup. Amazing with a dollop of vanilla ice-cream on the side.

 

Shredded carrots that had been mixed with milk, sugar, and nuts. The perfect light and sweet way to end a meal.

 

Sweet, creamy mango kulfi arrived in a decorative bowl with strawberry and mango sauces plus crushed nuts.

The final bill amounted to £220 for 4, so around £110 per couple including a huge number of drinks (Five 7-ups!?), lots of left-over naan, and service. It goes without saying that Bombay Palace definitely overcharge for what they serve. I enjoyed the food but when charging £25 for prawns that are done better at Gymkhana at a price of £18, it makes you think what exactly are they charging for?

Regardless of their extortionate pricing, Bombay Palace employ a friendly wait staff who, although are very attentive, are not overbearing, and go out of their way to make sure you have an enjoyable experience in their restaurant. The atmosphere is very intimate and quiet – perfect for a close knit of friends for a birthday or your other half for a special occasion.

By the time we had picked up the bill, it had been four whole hours and the restaurant was closed! The wait staff were just hanging around, waiting for us to leave – oops, sorry Bombay Palace. It was refreshing to have a dinner where both BW and I enjoyed the other couple’s company (without pretending), and we both agreed to meet up soon!

[Okay guys after this meal, I realised that I need to keep it real with the restaurants I post about. I just love food so much that I just hear about these places and I have to try them! However, great food doesn’t necessarily have to come with a hefty price tag. If you guys have any suggestions, do let me know 🙂 ]