5 /5 Maxim Sarychkin: What a place! Completely unsuspecting, given that its just a door next to Hendon Central Underground Station. Even the name on the front doesnt specify that its a bona fide curry house. The only thing that gives it away is the delicious smells that emanates from the premises.
I took my younger brother there to celebrate him completing his degree and we were both absolutely stunned with the service, the atmosphere and of course the food! I had the palak lamb and he had the chicken madras. Each bite was a deep explosion of fragrant flavour. I also bought a butter chicken for my partner at home. Her only complaint was that I didnt buy any rice for her! With all that we bought - 3 mains (one was takeaway), onion bhaji, pilau rice, two naans and about 4 pints - it came to just under 70 quid plus tip (tip not included), which is not bloody bad if you ask me!
The waiter that served us was very attentive, keeping our pints filled up and making sure we were enjoying our time there. There is also a pool table and a buzzing sports scene there too, though I did not get too involved in that as I was too taken by the food. Also, dont be deceived, while you do go below street level as you enter, it is not some sort of windowless basement. It actually backs onto the tube platform and you watch as the trains come and go - adding yet more intrigue to the already fantastic atmosphere. Theres also an outdoor smoking area, away from the street if youre a smoker.
Another thing that deserves a mention is the dips they provide with the popadums. Of course theres a raita, but instead of the lime pickle - which is usually take it or leave it for me - they provide some sort of mild chilli sauce. My goodness! That was something really special. I would try to describe it but it wouldnt express how exciting the sauce is.
In fact, the sentiment of that last sentence could be applied to the entire experience! Do not waste time reading my review; go to The Arena and have a bloody great curry!
