Zouk Tea Bar & Grill

A recent transfer from Bradford, Zouk occupies cavernous & contemporary quarters opposite the BBC. It offers curries with add-ons; hoummos to start, perhaps, or main courses ranging from burgers to lobster thermidor. Our advice is to veer away from the more unexpected dishes & play it safe; there’s nothing wrong with slow-cooked lamb nahari or a good chicken handi, after all. The scale of the place – it seats 200 – becomes clear if you are seated in view of the busy kitchen; it may also explain why the service can get rather confused at times. At first glance the tea element might seem perfunctory, but it’s worth taking a look at the selection of spiced & herbed chais that are offered alongside the lassis, milkshakes (including Turkish delight flavour) & beers.

There are few things more likely to entice you into a restaurant than a flower archway and copious amounts of fairy lights, a trick that has not been missed by Zouk Tea Bar & Grill. The vibrant entrance sets the tone for this Indian and Pakistani eatery, with its infectious high energy radiating from its open kitchen and dancers that move through the tables. The decor inside, whilst a little less flamboyant, is equally as stylish with a minimalistic yet sophisticated navy and cream colour scheme, and a pop of colour from the green foliage hanging from the ceiling. Zouk offers flavours from across both countries, presented in a banquet style to encourage a more sociable style of dining. Operating as an all day restaurant, it offers breakfast, a Tiffin lunch, Sunday roast and an a la carte menu to ensure there’s enough choice for everyone.

The menu consists of Indian flavours used in exciting ways, including fusion style options, such as butter chicken bao and a pulled lamb nihari calzone, made using naan bread. You can also expect all of the classics like paneer tikka and Goan fish curry, showcasing traditional flavours and customer favourites. For those with a sweet tooth, think Mango Mumbai mess made with fresh mango, mango coulis, cream cheese and crunchy biscuit.

Bringing something a little different to the table, there is also bottomless brunch available on the menu. All of the standard brunch dishes have been given an Indian makeover, like the Bollywood eggs benedict with a spicy hollandaise, and scrambled paneer, with Indian spices, peppers and onions. For the brunch deal you can enjoy any two dishes with 90 minutes of unlimited drinks, including; prosecco, mimosa, bellinis and some non-alcoholic options.

Zouk lends itself as the perfect place to catch up with friends and family, whether it’s a Saturday brunch to kick off the weekend or rounding it off with a Sunday roast.