Another somewhat late piece, and if you look at TripAdvisor, you might think that something has happened since our visit, but this relates to our visit.
We went for Sunday lunch, and knowing that the place could get very busy in the evening needing a very early booking strategy, I booked this about a month in advance. In the event, and with several changes of numbers, I need not have worried, as the place was very quiet on Sunday lunch: this was unexpected, but may be because it is quite pricey, and does not have the bargain Sunday Buffet.
Indian Rasoi has been a bit of an institution in East Finchley for several years, and when I have been there in the past, it needed booking way in advance. The place specialises in South Indian cuisine, and contains many unfamiliar dishes and tastes. It is not your average Indian. It looks somewhat upmarket and the staff are quite smart. We had no problem with the staff, but there are comments on TripAdvisor about a variety of problems, which we did not encounter.
There is a somewhat self-indulgent web site on http://www.indian-rasoi.co.uk/menus.html which also has a menu. They also do a takeaway business, but this is above average prices. One of the big catches is that there is no alcohol (at the time or writing and on the date of the visit). According to TripAdvisor they have 'lost' their license, but for the life of me I cannot remember whether it was there before. There is no facility apparent for your own alcohol. This might be a bit of a negative for some people, but at least it keeps the bill down.
For starter I had Kakori Kebab (menu says A delicacy from Mogul kitchen, minced lamb marinated with cardamom (sic), mace, cashew nuts paste, raw papaya & rose petals and grilled on live charcoal. This is a bit like Sheek Kebab.
This was hot (scoring an 8.4 on the CHOF scale) and a big portion. As you can see it is attractively presented, and accompanied by a spicy sauce.
For main course I had Murgh Makhani which the menu says is all time favourite tandoori roasted chicken tikka cooked in kasoori methi flavoured, tomato gravy
with oodles of butter and cream.
There was also a side order of aubergine
These were very rich, tasty and significant helpings. We did not need any more food. Again a CHOF of 8.4
My considered opinion was that this was something better than the ordinary Indian Restaurant, as dishes are unusual and tasty. Unlike other reviewers who have said the food tastes all the same, this was not my experience. I would definitely go there again. The final bill is a bit above Indian average, but because of the lack of alcohol, can be a pleasant surprise.
It has to be said that the restaurant is small, therefore it is best to book. The parking is not easy but we found places in the back streets.
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