Originally a country pub built alongside the River Colne, Riverside Spice Indian Restaurant now exudes contemporary flair and style. A beguiling mix of vibrant jewel colours gives the restaurant an exotic feel – recesses are lit in sapphire blue and the walls are elegantly painted in white, turquoise and orange.
Dishes are listed under a number of regional headings and there is a vast selection of flavoursome chicken, lamb and seafood options. Vegetarian diners like myself are in luck, as the menu also offers a fantastic variety of vegetablebased dishes. I devoured my Bengal ka begun starter, which featured tasty grilled pieces of aubergine served in sweet yoghurt that was warmed and lightly spiced. My companion was equally enthusiastic about her starter of crabcakes, claiming they were the best she had ever tasted. Served with coriander leaves, a yoghurt dip and tamarind sauce, they were packed with deliciously light, flaky crabmeat.
For my main course I ordered vegetable dhansak, featuring vegetables cooked in a sweet and sour sauce with lentils. Sides of bhindi and fluffy pilau rice provided ideal accompaniments to my luscious main. My companion ordered the tasty begun adda king prawn. The prawns, which were tender, succulent and plentiful, were scooped into an aubergine that had been baked until the flesh reached a lovely, creamy texture – a truly memorable dish.
Riverside Spice won an Ethical Good Food Award in 2009 and was nominated for a Customer Excellence Award in 2010, proving that the team is always building on its achievements. The restaurant often holds themed evenings (live music from Marshall King once a month is particularly popular) and the layout allows for large gatherings. In fact, the entire restaurant can be hired, and there is even an area suitable for dancing.
Riverside Spice is extremely popular and booking is advisable on Friday and Saturday evenings. It comes as no surprise that locals and visitors alike flock here – the beautifully cooked food, excellent value and expert service make a journey to this restaurant entirely worthwhile, however long or short it may be.
