A review of Indian Zing

My friends, Louise, Kari, Jane, Lucy and I had arranged to meet up for dinner and we decided on Indian Zing as our venue. Louise made the recommendation and her choice was made on the basis that it was apparently a favourite of recently departed Michael Winner and he certainly knew his stuff when it came to food.

I love all types of spicy food and am particularly keen on Indian. I had been keen to try this place as it describes itself as quality Indian food with a twist and I do love a good twist! It is located in the Ravenscourt Park area of Hammersmith and although I have spent a lot of time in this area, it was my first ever visit to Indian Zing.

On arrival, I was struck by the unusual feature of a free standing carved wooden door like structure a few feet in from the actual door, along with the pictures of India on the walls. Our table was situated beneath a picture of of the Taj Mahal which brought back very happy memories of a long ago trip around India!

I have to say, the food in India Zing really is a cut above the rest with slightly more unique offerings than the standard. Whilst perusing the menu, we munched on Rice poppadoms,whole wheat crispy flat bread and Roasted poppadoms with black pepper served with mint, coriander and pomegranate seeds relish; raita made with carrot, cucumber, onion, tomatoes and raisins; mango chutney with black pepper corn, cumin and bayleaf. (£6.00 for 4). The unusual dips were a refreshing change from the usual offerings.

For my starter I chose the Vegetable Bhanavla (£5.75) This is India Zing’s version of the onion bhaji but was nothing like any bhaji I have tasted. It was baked and then griddled in the authentic Maharashtrian way, drizzled with tamarind and green herb relish- totally delicious and beautifully presented.

For mains we chose a selection to share. I voted for the Malabar Chicken Curry (£9.00ٴ) which was free-range chicken breast cubes tempered with mustard seeds, whole crushed spices, sliced onions, ginger, garlic, curry leaves, tomatoes and finished with tamarind and coconut milk. Although I like spicy food, this was extremely hot and I was glad that the others had included some milder options including the rather yummy Saffron Chicken Korma.

Stand out sides included Smoked aubergine, onion and corn (£6.50ٴ) and Lentils, garlic and red chillies. (£5.00ٴ) and lemon and gingice rice £3.00) Fabulous food and great service makes this a must visit restaurant and I definitely will be back. Just one word of warning, don’t be tempted to take any children with you as the Kama Sutra images in the toilets are enough to make anyone blush!!