Finding Indian food in London is as common as finding a fake tan in Scottsdale. It's everywhere…read more
The challenge is to find the best, and Nagina is by far the best. I can't use the "I'm Indian" card here, because in London (particularly Southall), almost everyone is of the Sub-Continent.
In the US, if an Indian eats at an Indian restaurant, it's a good place. In London, if an Indian eats at one, it's because he is eating out.
The owner and chef, who's name I still forget used to own another restaurant that I used to visit weekly as a little kid. Then on my last few trips to England, I ate at Nagina almost every night while staying with relatives because it was that good. (And don't hate on London's lack of a restaurant scene, it's one of the best in the world).
Ok, on to the good stuff. When you walk in, Nagina has the feel of a dive-y fast food restaurant, but it is in fact a proper restaurant.
The kitchen is at the front, and is open air, so you can smell all of the fantastic cooking. The masalas, the simmering sauces and the wealth of flavors that are about to make sweet love to eachother. Yes. It's that good.
The Bhindi Masala and Daal Fry were always my favorites. Chicken Tikka Masala, and the Prawn Masala are so clutch too!
I still can't get over the fact that the owner is the chef, and makes the food in front of EVERYONE. The kitchen even has a street view, so curious shoppers of Broad Street can judge, become hungry, and eat.
Side note, there is a hotel attached to the restaurant. Sometimes, it's cheaper to stay there. It's not fancy, but if you need a place to stay in the Southall area, you can book a room and save some time and money.
