56 Stoke Newington Church Street,
Stoke Newington,
London,
N16 0NB
0872 261 0110
Note: Calls cost 10p per min plus network extras.
The ViewLondon Review
Part of the successful group of Rasa restaurants, this one is just as good as the original.
The Venue
This eatery is modelled on the original Rasa just across the street, as in fact are all of the wildly successful Rasa restaurants. Same same but different, as they might say in India, with a menu that offers meat and seafood dishes and in a slightly larger space. This is the first Syrian-Christian restaurant outside Kerala and the sleek modern feel is brought to life by the pink and gold decor and understated Indian touches. Booking is definitely advised.
The Atmosphere
This lively, local restaurant buzzes with the hum of deeply satisfied occupants; the waiters knowing they are working in one of London's best Indian's and the diners sighing with happiness as their carefully chosen plates of fragrant curry, rice and breads are whisked to the table.
The Food
The Rasa family of restaurants are well known for their fantastic Keralan food; bright zinging flavours and healthy yet sumptuous dishes that you don't find anywhere else. Rasa Travancore has some old favourites from her vegetarian sister across the road, but these are enhanced by a selection of chicken, duck, lamb, prawn, and fish dishes. The Keralan Feast at £20 is good value and gives a generous taste of some of their most popular dishes. From the a la carte, lamb puffs – little balls of fragrant lamb mixture in puff pasty – or chicken cutlets – potato and chicken mixture rolled in breadcrumbs - both squeeze a lot of flavour into small packages.
For mains, Nadan Kozhy is the king of curries. A mild treat, with tender chunks of chicken cloaked in a rich subtle sauce, layered with soft spice flavours. It's about as far from a chicken korma as you can get. The seafood dishes show the talent of Rasa's chef's and highlight the best of Keralan cooking - succulent prawns and fish in a myriad of delicious sauces. Pick from lemon or coconut rice, springy chapatis and thick, chewy paratha breads. And for dessert, if you've the space, a Banana Dosa is highly recommended.
The Drink
A fine wine list, bottles of Cobra the size of Big Ben and dreamy lassis are perfect accompaniment to this gorgeous food. Water is served in metal cups, adding to the authentic, yet modern feel.
The Last Word
Rasa's offering for carnivores and seafood lovers offers up melt-in the-mouth dishes in a pink and gold heaven.
Rasa Travancore has been reviewed by 1 users