Russel Court Hotel holds a hidden gem in Bournemouth's dining scene. Desi Dhabaa delivers traditional Indian street food to hotel guests and locals in a dining room of class and authenticity. The restaurant has an exciting menu of classic flavours in small plates, curries, grilled meats, and rice dishes. Meaning "street food", Desi Dhabaa offers plenty of familiar favourites as well as some added twists which make the restaurant unique to the rest.
Kick things off with an assortment of pakoras and dip light, crispy poppadoms in a sweet chutney while you peruse the rest of the extensive menu. From the ocean section, you'll find grilled fish that has been marinated in Indian spices as well as a creamy prawn curry. Of course, the likes of chicken tikka and tandoori lamb are found in the tandoor section of the menu. Pair these Indian spiced, specially grilled meats with an accompanying biryani - aromatic basmati rice brings a true taste of authentic Indian flavours.
A more unique offering of Indo-Chinese dishes are also available with the highlight being the spicy noodles that are stir fried and mixed with succulent chicken or mixed vegetables.
However, if you're not ready to ditch your favourites, tikka masala, korma, jalfrezi and a vindaloo, are not left off the menu. A huge range of curries are available from vegetable or chickpea, to chicken or lamb; and you can't pass on an accompanying portion of pilau rice. Expertly flavoured and spiced, you won't want to leave any drop of sauce or grain of rice on your plate and luckily Desi Dhabaa's naan breads are the perfect solution. Opt for garlic, cheesy, stuffed, or stay classic with a plain, traditionally baked naan to mop up any leftovers.
Desi Dhabaa also offers Indian desserts like gulab jamun (spongy milky balls soaked in rose scented syrup) and gajar ka halwa (a sweet carrot pudding) which make the perfect finale to a true Indian dining experience.