Sambal Express Croydon - (Near Croydon, South East)

3 /5 J K: I am giving 3 stars because the food is pretty good. However, the little containers they use for the chutneys are useless. Every time I order takeaway, I find that everything has spilled out in the bag. Also, the large container of sothi had spilt everywhere. I am attaching a photograph of the mutton biryani I received yesterday. I have extracted the meat and placed it on the side for you to see how little meat was in it – just three small pieces. Even for £6, this is taking the mick…

5 /5 AMI Productions: If you are Sri Lankan and missing home, this is the place to go in Croydon. The food isnt British-style—its the real deal. I had the Red Rice Pittu with Kiri Hodi and Pol Sambol, and for a second, I forgot I was in London. The spice levels are perfect and havent been toned down. It’s exactly the kind of comfort food you need when youre feeling nostalgic. Authentic, affordable, and 100% hits the spot.

4 /5 Ramkumar VSD: Sambal Express is an excellent dining option if you’re familiar with the menu and know what dishes to order. The establishment offers outstanding value for money, making it a popular choice for those seeking authentic flavours without breaking the bank. Our routine used to be visiting them first thing on Saturday mornings before starting the day’s grocery shopping, always beginning with their delightful milky sweet chai. the tea alone is worth the visit. However, it’s worth noting that not all items on the menu are equally impressive – some can be hit and miss, so having knowledge of the dishes or asking for recommendations is advisable. The vegetarian snacks and savouries are consistently excellent and always a safe bet. My absolute favourite is the parippu vada, a crispy lentil-based fried item that pairs perfectly with tea. The texture is wonderfully crunchy, and the flavour is authentic and satisfying. Another highlight is the poli, a crepe-like delicacy made from lentils flour and ghee. However, they only prepare a limited number daily, and these tend to sell out remarkably early, so arriving promptly is essential if you want to try them. Several items have proven consistently reliable during my visits. The jumbo mutton roll is generously sized and flavourful, while the coconut-based bread and modhagam never disappoint. I’ve also tried their bucket biryani, which was delicious on the day I sampled it, though I’ve heard consistency can vary on this particular item. A word of caution regarding the non-vegetarian fried items sold by weight – these can sometimes taste rather junky, and several are extremely spicy, which may not suit all palates. It’s worth asking about spice levels before ordering. The red and white hoppers (idiyappam)deserve special mention. They’re excellent when microwaved and served with coconut milk, creating a comforting and authentic Sri Lankan experience. The staff are genuinely friendly and helpful, always willing to guide you through the menu and make recommendations based on your preferences. While Sambal Express excels as a snack destination and breakfast spot, it may not be the ideal choice for a full sit-down dinner experience. However, for authentic, affordable bites and a quick satisfying meal, it’s a place you should try​​

4 /5 Birunthaban Sivanesan: No parking available as this is an express shop and you can park nearby street. They deliver via Uber and just eat Sambal Express Croydon: A Taste of Authentic Sri Lankan Flavours Sambal Express in Croydon stands out as a popular spot for those craving authentic Sri Lankan cuisine. With a focus on traditional flavours and generous portions at affordable prices, its a go-to for many in the area. Food Quality & Variety: One of the strongest points of Sambal Express is its commitment to authentic Sri Lankan taste. Customers consistently praise the food for its genuine spice levels, which set it apart from more "British-adapted" versions. The menu is extensive, offering a wide array of options for both meat-eaters and vegetarians, though some have expressed a desire for even more vegetarian choices. Highlights often mentioned include the various curries (especially crab and prawn), biryanis, and traditional "short eats" like mutton rolls, vadai, and fish patties. Dishes like the red rice indiappa and Kiri hodi are particularly praised for evoking a taste of home for many. Value for Money: A recurring theme in reviews is the excellent value for money. Portions are noted to be generous, and the prices are surprisingly low for the quality and quantity of food provided. This makes it a popular choice for both quick, satisfying meals and larger family orders. Service and Atmosphere: The staff at Sambal Express Croydon generally receive high praise for being friendly, efficient, and patient. Many reviews highlight their helpfulness and genuine care, which contributes to a welcoming atmosphere. While some older reviews might hint at past inconsistencies, recent feedback suggests a positive and improved service experience. Potential Areas for Improvement: While generally well-regarded, a few minor points have been raised. Some customers have occasionally noted inconsistencies in the portioning of certain ingredients, particularly meat in biryanis. Additionally, as mentioned, a broader selection of vegetarian main dishes could further enhance the appeal for diverse dietary preferences. Overall: Sambal Express Croydon offers a delightful and authentic Sri Lankan dining experience. With its flavourful food, generous portions, affordable prices, and friendly service, its a highly recommended destination for anyone looking to explore the rich culinary traditions of Sri Lanka in Croydon. Whether youre a long-time fan of Sri Lankan food or new to the cuisine, Sambal Express provides a satisfying and genuine taste experience.

5 /5 John Smith: Great place to get all types of rice, starters, curries, snacks and desserts. Not forgetting the mango lassi and falooda. Delicious food and great prices. You are charged on how much it weighs rather than a portion. I generally get a delicious chicken biriyani portion usually less than a fiver!