Presenting tried and true South Asian comfort food on the Strand and just down the street from Covent Garden, Daawat Indian restaurant at the four star (and newly renovated) Strand Palace Hotel is a smart choice when you’re on the go and seeking a satisfying meal.
During a recent evening visit, I went with the Chef’s Special Taster Menu (£22) which featured a range of five starters (I especially liked the “saufiyani murgh malai kebab” of marinated chicken with fennel seeds, cashews and cream cooked in the tandoor) and a “duo of curries” main course of chicken tikka masala and lamb dopiaza, all served with Basmati rice and ample naan. There were certainly plenty of other options worth consideration too, including a very budget friendly three course pre dinner menu available between 4 and 7pm for only £15.
Despite a more than adequate wine list, I found a Cobra beer (£4.50 for a 330ml bottle) to my favour. That along with some coconut ice cream (£6) for my dessert, and I was set for the night.
Service was super efficient (if a bit brusque once or twice), and I would have no issue popping in there again for an express lunch or pre theatre dinner when seeking a hearty meal but strapped for time.
Bottom line: a perfectly respectable curry house is in a great location offering value for money dinning in a competitive and busy area.
Daawat is located at the Strand Palace Hotel, 372 Strand, WC2R 0JJ . Find out more at strandpalacehotel.co.uk/eat-drink-with-us/our-restaurant-and-bars/daawat
