Good news from The Chequers, Old Headington. Half of it is now The Royal India restaurant. You probably guessed that its Indian food (and Bangladeshi, as usual). And its decent grub, competitively priced. I love curry, and aleays found it annoying that the friendly but patchy Mirabai never had to up it's game. Well now it does. I enjoyed my Fish Korai, pilau rice and garlic bread. Not outstanding, but certainly very good value. Perhaps more importantly everyone, in a large party, seemed happy afterwards.
The place was pleasingly packed on a Friday night. The entrance through the pub bar is vaguely disconcerting, but once inside it is all nice enough. My grading really went up when I found that they now do some decent Indian lager, as well as very nice Hobgoblin ale.
Popadoms seemed fresh, although they could be a little more generous with the chutney.
Meals took quite a time to arrive, but I think there were 9 of us, and it was very busy. But food arrived hot, and all at the same time. Well almosr all. One poor chap's got forgotten, but is was rustled up quick and hot when pointed out, and he was given it for free.
In short, friendly service, tasty food in generous portions, good beer, slightly strange not to have it's own entrance, but a welcome addition to Headington. Try it! read more