Indian restaurant ranked as one of the best in UK

AN Indian restaurant in Cheltenham has been ranked as one of the best for fine dining in the UK by Tripadvisor.

The Mahal, in Montpellier Drive, was recognised as the country’s eighth best according to Tripadvisors Travellers’ Choice 2022.

The list is compiled based on a range of ratings and reviews on the popular review site. And to ensure the list is up to date, all are from assessments made in the past year.

The Mahal is in what used to be Spice Lodge, which closed in 2020 during the pandemic. The building was refurbished when it opened as The Mahal in July of that year.

It prides itself on offering high-quality Indian cuisine with an innovative and modern approach. It is owned by the same company behind the popular contemporary Muse Brasserie in Cheltenham, which was named as the second best ‘hidden gem’ in another Tripadvisor award category.

It has a five-star average rating on Tripadvisor with fulsome praise from visitors. The food, service and atmosphere are all highly rated.

Christopher M wrote: “The tasting menu was delicious. Refined, balanced and full of flavour. Outstanding friendly service. Definitely recommend.”

Reviewer 462vidis wrote: “The service was excellent, the staff are really attentive. The ambience was perfect for the occasion. The food was delicious, beautifully presented and delivered quickly. Really enjoyed the small surprises and delights by the friendly staff.”

Speaking at the launch of The Mahal, partner Limon Rahman said: “Guests can expect glamour, opulence, sensational food and superior service to make their dining experience truly memorable.

“Our award-winning chefs use only the best quality seasonal produce to create a rotating menu based on traditional favourites and innovative conceptions of their own. A delicious variety of dishes not usually found in Indian restaurants will be featured such as rabbit, quail and crab.”