A Gem Of A Ruby

Annapurna proves its reputation as Chiswick's favourite curry house

Indian is by far and away my favourite of all international cuisines. So when the opportunity to review Annapurna came up, I jumped at the chance. We went reasonably early on a rainy Friday evening, because experience has taught me how busy the little restaurant gets on the weekends. As ever, my companion Michael and I were given a warm welcome and seated, before being given the customary papadums with a selection of chutneys and sauces to accompany our Cobras, my favourite bottled beer.

As two curry lovers, we skipped the starters and went for a plethora of sides to accompany our main courses. I ordered the Lamb Dhansak and Michael opted for a house special, after a lengthy discussion with our waiter, discussing what flavours he liked, his spice preferences and the meat which the dish would revolve around. Rice, onion bhajis, saag aloo (a spinach and potato dish) and of course, some naan bread were our selections to add to the experience.

Our food was with us before we knew it, as it was early, but I had a lengthy discussion with our waiter about how the weekend before, they had a full house for the entirety of Friday night. He made it clear that often the food can take a while to prepare, but they’d rather produce high-quality food at a slower rate than rush it and lose the quality, a sentiment I can fully sympathise with.

Our meal, though, was fantastic. The Dhansak was thick and delicious, the lamb tender and the spicy sauce weighted just right to accompany. However, the revelation of the meal was Michael’s house Murgh special. A fiery tomato sauce with perfectly cooked chicken and an array of spices was one of the best curries I have ever tasted, something I would fully recommend. Our plates were clear in absolutely no time and we both agreed that we’d had a wonderful meal.

Annapurna’s food is fantastic, but its the vibe of the restaurant that makes it a wonderful dining experience. The staff are helpful, attentive and seem to really care about their customers, the interior is fresh and bright and the atmosphere is laid back and relaxed.

There’s not a hint of snooty attitudes inside and although it’s not a cheap meal, you pay for what you get - first rate curry and first rate service. It’s these factors that makes Annapurna my favourite restaurant in W4, and why it’s the first restaurant I head to when I come back from University in the cold North every term.

Jack Collins

Annapurna: 101, Chiswick High Road; phone 0208 995 4431

October 4, 2012