Vindaloo Vic

Definitive Reviews of London’s Indian Restaurants

Malabar 3

The style is designer minimalist – ideally situated to the local clientele of designer minimalist people who live in the bijou residences of “Hillgate Village” near Notting Hill Gate.

This is a place that sells itself on image, rather than the quality of its food. To be fair the starters we had were pretty good – and the portions were generous. The Devilled Kaleja (chicken livers) were tasty and nicely complemented other tandoori starters.

But the main courses were dire. Not that there was much choice – there were only five chicken dishes on the menu. We ordered three different dishes, including the tempting sounding Harra Murg (“chicken prepared with fresh lime, green chillies, coriander and green tomatoes”). All tasted bland and watery.

The fact that this place has been going since 1983 suggests that there are enough designer minimalist locals who can’t be bothered to go further afield when seeking curry satisfaction.

The service was distinctly average. After the main course experience, we decided to cut our losses and left before risking the desserts.