Last summer saw the opening of a fascinating new Indian restaurant, Kenley Spice in Godstone Road, Kenley.  The owner, Syed, honed his culinary skills from a young age in the beautiful state of Karala in southern India.  His last position was as a sous chef before leaving India to settle in England and open up a restaurant of his own.

When I visited Kenley Spice last month with my friend Janice, we took our own wine as the restaurant does not have a licence to sell alcohol yet.  

Many of the menu choices are Syed's own recipe, including the delicious onion chutney that was served with the popadoms along with the mango chutney.  

The portions were very generous and represented excellent value.  I had the Tandoori Tiger Prawn for starter, lovely juicy, spicy prawns served with onions and red peppers.  Janice had the Chicken Carfrial, one of Syed's own home-made recipes using mint, coriander, green chille, ginger and garlic to produce a  lovely delicate flavour.  

I discoverd a new favourite with my main course - Murg Sagwala - curried chicken tossed with baby spinach leaves, a wonderful combination.  Janice decided to opt for a fish curry and Jose recommended the Mango Fish Curry simmered in coconut milk.  Jose explained that the mango helps the sweet and sour flavours of the curry to come out and Janice was very impressed with the flavour.  Syed will cook each individual dish to your own taste for spiciness, so you are not limited to specific mild, medium or hot dishes on the menu. 

The setting is plain and simple but the delicious Indian food makes a visit to this little restaurant very worthwhile indeed.

To book a table call 020 7998 4909.

'Kenley Spice Indian Restaurant and Takeaway
74 Godstone Road, Kenley. 
Telephone:  020 7998 4909.