As things continue to open up, I’m exploring more and more. I may not be ready for a boogie with a bunch of strangers on a dance floor yet, but this revisit to Royal Nawaab to sample their new brunch menu was the first ‘big’ place I’ve ventured to since lockdown ended.
The thing I loved on my pre-pandemic visit was the care they take. Everyone is welcome, everyone is treated well and looked after. And now is no different. There are extra safeguards. Masks, extra screens and directional guides around the buffet. Some things stayed the same, because they’re already well thought out, but thanks to the pandemic you notice them more. There’s plenty of space to walk around the tables, the air conditioning is on, and when customers arrive, they’re greeted and seated well spaced out on the available tables. As ever the clearing and cleaning happens regularly. Finish your plate and wander off for a new one, and your empties will be whisked away. And at regular gaps, staff pop out to clean the buffet space itself and replenish dishes.
All the above means that even when it’s busy, you feel looked after.
That’s the service, what about the food? As ever, there’s a huge selection. Alongside pani puri, soup and huge salad selection as starters, there are charcoal grilled kebabs and the ever delicious masala chips.
There’s a massive selection of mains. Chicken, lamb and paneer curries, biryanis – but don’t limit yourself to the first row of dishes. Lift your gaze to the chefs behind the rows of self serve dishes for freshly made treats (try the lamb chops, totally worth it).
But if you have a more English palate (or maybe your kids do, yes kids are very welcome here too) then do not fear. Chips and chicken nuggets, pasta, or even a croissant eggs and sausage are available, meaning you don’t have to leap into something spicy if that’s not to your taste.
Though personally it’s all about the paneer, keema and pilau – and the buttery sweet peshwari naan.
Finally comes dessert. If you have room. For me I usually just want a little taste of something sweet, so the halwa has become a bit of a go to. But there are so many options it can be hard to choose. Mango custard, ice cream with flavours spanning everything from traditional chocolate to blue bubblegum. Cakes sit alongside sweet jalebi and rice pudding.
Overall, really, what’s not to love? A family friendly venue, with great food – even for the fussiest of eaters, and excellent service. I’ve no doubt I’ll be back again – and maybe this time I’ll bring the whole family.