Rimjhim Colden Common

Finding that gem restaurant down a random country lane or in the back streets that no one knows about yet is sometimes the ultimate goal as a foodie. THIS IS IT! for me anyway. I worked up the road from here for a few months and stumbled upon it after going the wrong way one day. Located in an old country pub, the contemporary and well kept restaurant has a modern facelift and a very modern menu that makes you cautious at first. so..

I first went here for lunch, a fair price and good basic menu for £9.95. We had Chicken Tikka Masala and Lamb Chops for mains with Sheek kebab and chicken pakora for starters. From the first bite to the unwelcomed last, it was fantastic! hot, flavoursome and unique. I had tasted flavours in such good balance for a long long time. The produce was fresh, the sheek kebab looked like it had just been formed by hands and fingers, the pakora had fresh chicken, still moist and not the generic marinated red chicken often used in Indian restaurants. the main also had a very good depth of flavour and a good lunch portion. Naan also accompanied the mains and were made very fresh and hot, cut into quarters and dripping with ghee. Every effort had even been put into the naan. The keema in the naan was moist and I could taste the flavours in the mix.

I then took my partner for dinner during a busy period and despite most tables being full the standard did not drop. She tried the Chicken tikka masala and said it was possibly the best she has ever had, commenting on its authentic deep tandoor flavour. I had the Tandoori King Prawns which were presented in magnificent fashion and tasted incredible. A great balance of cream while keeping the flavour of the fish and the kick of the spices. The portion of prawns was an un-shy 8! Very good.

We also eventually tried the takeaway after a late night at the office, we ordered onion bhajis, the Old delhi chicken and the Rimjhim Chicken. Both dishes completely blew our minds! the flavours were unique, incredibly fused, and even in a takeaway...perfect. the bhajis were crisp and good, not anything overly special but the mains, as usual made it up entirely! Incredible food.

Summary: The BEST Indian restaurant and takeaway I have been to in a long time. Service is great, atmosphere un-intimidating and peaceful even at full service. Food fantastic, a truly great experience with truly great food. A REAL gem!