Pongal Express - (Near Redbridge, london)

FM-N We discovered Afrikana as its on our local takeout list. The food is always always top notch. So we decided to celebrate a birthday at Afrikana, we had to book by email as we were a larger party (7 people). We then turned up early to boot. But everyone was welcoming and our table was ready for us immediately. We ordered the ‘meat again’ as a shared plate, the ‘just kebabin’ with lamb and ‘we goat your back’ which is a family favourite and so delicious. We also ordered the loaded mac n cheese for the pasta freak in the group (who was also the birthday person). And extra plantain because I love plantain, and hummus which was served with the softest most delicious pita. We also had pretty much one of every mocktail, they were all delicious. The atmosphere in the restaurant was not too loud, so we could hear eachother and talk comfortably, the food was fresh and tasty. We ate till we almost popped. Shout out for the desserts, we had one of each of those too. They were all a taste sensation. Special thanks to the amazing wait staff, who were friendly and welcoming and couldn’t do enough, even tho we turned up early with a massive party (really sorry about that). The food was amazing atmosphere was lovely, and all at a very reasonable price. If you’re celebrating or want to eat out somewhere that makes delicious food this is the place for you. Special mention for the Afrikana fries, if you like slightly hot piquant sauce this ones for you

Sultan Wadud We visited Franzos on Ilford Lane on a Saturday afternoon. As we didn’t go during peak time, seating was easy to find for our party of seven, which made the experience comfortable and relaxed. The restaurant was clean and well maintained, and the service was prompt throughout our visit. We ordered a mix of items from the menu, and everything arrived in good time. The Loaded Box was a highlight and went down very well. It offered great value for money, coming with a peri peri burger, three hot wings, and chips. We also ordered the Nashville-flavoured tenders and the mac and cheese with chicken, both of which were well cooked and full of flavour. Overall, the food was satisfying, portion sizes were generous, and there was truly something for everyone. A nice added bonus was the prayer area inside the restaurant, which was very convenient. A solid dining experience and a place we’d happily visit again.

liam bettis Such a fun and delicious experience! Being able to cook our own food right at the table made the meal interactive and enjoyable. The buffet had a great variety of fresh meats, vegetables, and sides, all high quality and well stocked. Everything cooked beautifully and tasted amazing. The staff were friendly and quick to help, and the atmosphere was lively and clean. Perfect for groups or anyone who enjoys a hands-on dining experience. Highly recommend!

Traveler Best food in the town. Reasonable price and good service. Only opens 3 days a week from Friday to Sunday from 9am to 7pm at Gascogine Road and Mondays - Tuesdays at Barking Market. Chicken Tikka and Chip box (Chilli and tamarind sauce with lots of salad on the top) with Tamarind drink is my favourite food only cost £6 (£5 for box and £1 for drink). (Tip: Pls mix a bit water in the Tamarind drink for bit normal task otherwise its bit sugary)

Mes V Great time out with the family. About 5 other people in the cafe when we, a group of 8, showed up. Waiter took our orders and food showed up soon enough. Portions were large and food cooked through and tasty. We ordered dessert too and that was tasty and came in good time although one order came slightly later. Toilets are upstairs though so not accessible to wheelchair users. Parking can be found around the cafe, we parked up at the local leisure centre which was about 5 mins walk away. Prices at the cafe were fair considering its location and demographics. We visited during Barking Market day (Tuesday, also on Thurs & Sat) so busy outside but inside it was quieter and a welcome escape from the hustle and bustle outside. Its also about 10mins walk from Barking Station so helpful for those families travelling on tube etc. Staff were friendly (not overly familiar or smiley), professional and got down to serving us with aplomb. Nothing too much for them. One of our party spilt a drink and we had to move tables due to the mess, but we werent made to feel like we were an inconvenience or silly, floor was mopped, table wiped and back to business as usual. Brilliant service! Really helpful people, thank you for having us!!

Sangeeth Sebastian An average shop at best. The biriyani is just… okay — definitely not the kind that gives you a “wow” moment. It’s missing soul, personality, and frankly, any ambition. I ordered at 7:30pm and the food arrived at 9:30pm. So here’s a tip: order from this place, put on a full movie, and by the time the screen says “The End”, your food might finally show up. The beef curry is passable, but honestly, show some respect to the beef. It looks like it’s been around longer than I have. Porotta is fine — nothing to complain about, nothing to celebrate either. Try it once if you want to get a hang of the food… or at least the waiting time.