At first sight, Kasturi looks more like a copyshop than a restaurant, its narrow, unassuming frontage belying a narrow, blond wood interior slightly overlit by a Kleig-like array of ceiling spots.

The Venue
In a bid to escape the cliched curry house interior – all flock wallpaper and origami napkins – Kasturi may have erred a little on the side of blandness; whether pan-pipe versions of the hits of Rod Stewart are actually preferable to sitar music is a moot point.

The Atmosphere
Service at Kasturi is friendly if a little over-attentive, with each table seemingly looked after by a whole array of staff. As you’d expect from a City restaurant there’s a fair proportion of after-work outings on week nights, and it’s pretty quiet at weekends. There’s a brisk trade in takeaways, much in evidence even on quiet nights early in the week.

The Food
Kasturi’s minor shortcomings when it comes to decor and atmosphere are more than made up for by the quality of the food, which far outstrips anything you’d expect from your average London curry restaurant.

This is surprising, imaginative and truly delicious Indian cooking, with fresh herbs and spices much in evidence, prepared with real flair. And yet, for all this the prices are extremely reasonable; no wonder Kasturi’s reputation continues to grow.

The Last Word
You may not think it to look at it, but Kasturi is a well above average curry restaurant which will surprise even the most jaded of palates. Just opposite Aldgate tube, it’s well worth nipping across town for, and if you’re lucky enough to live or work nearby, make sure you drop in. Highly recommended.

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