135-137 Trafalgar Road,
Greenwich,
London,
SE10 9TX
0872 148 4592
The ViewLondon Review
Open since last year, but launched in January, this Caribbean fusion bistro is a welcoming oasis of tasty cuisine, friendly service and an ultra-chilled atmosphere. There is no doubt. The place has soul. With a cosy red interior, lilting reggae music and vibrant African paintings adorning the walls, it is easy to feel at home there.
From the starters, we chose the spicy lamb patties and a generous portion of Jerk chicken skewers, perfectly marinated to give it a hot tang. From the mains, we tried the signature dish, a full-flavoured, tender mutton curry with rice. It was great, but best by far, was the mango chicken with sweet potato mash and callaloo (spinach with onions and garlic). To die for!
Jamaican owner Pauline shared her secret. “If it’s not good enough for my mother, then it’s not good enough for my customers. Her look of disapproval maintains the standards…”
For dessert, the apple and banana crumble went highly recommended but we opted instead for the pancakes soaked in rum, syrup and ice-cream which left us positively humming. Service was at times a little laid back, but it all contributed to that island feel.
What makes Indies most unique is its impressive list of rums. It has over 20 kinds and is the first in London to have the full range of Cockspur from Barbados. Beware though; even a whiff of the stuff will almost knock you over.