Modhubon is one of the oldest restaurants of its kind in London (having been established in 1956)
It is a stone’s throw from Notting Hill Station; whilst on the other side is the everfashionable Portobello Market.
It has now been revamped and modernised in bright pink and yellow tones to reflect the vibrancy of Indian design, whilst tipping a nod to the multicultural nature of the area. The family behind Modhubon are very well known restraiteurs, being cousins to that local stalwart the Pimlico Tandoori.
We were lucky enough on our visit to be entertained by several generations of this family. To start, we tried the Tandoori Chicken, which was beautifully cooked, moist and spicy, at £4.25 a quarter. We also ordered a mixed starter, which included vegetable samosas, sheek kebab, chicken tikka and onion bhajee at £7.95. As many millions of India’s population are themselves vegetarian, the restaurant has a great selection of meat-free dishes. Of particular note is the special menu featuring ten vegetable dishes, such as Tarka Dahl, at £4.95, and Sag Bhaji, which is spinach with sautéed onions and blended spices.
Another favourite is sag ponir, absolutely delicious at only £5.95. Oh, and don’t forget to try the aubergine, in the form of brinjol bhaji, at £4.95. As a main course, for those who aren’t great lovers of spice, they offer succulent butter chicken at £6.95, or the ever-present Chicken Tikka masala, perfectly cooked, and of a similar heat.
Lamb dishes are also recommended, with thin fillets of sliced lamb, marinated in cream and spices, then cooked with herbs, sliced almonds and pistachio’s (Lamb Passanda) a delight at around the seven pound mark. We opted for the mouth-watering Lamb Madras at the other end of the spectrum, hot but with great depth of flavour, at £7.95.
The level of choice on offer at Modhubon is outstanding, with a wide selection of fish dishes as well as the usual extras such as breads and rice. The wine list, though small, is well chosen. Why not accompany your meal with an Indian beer, or order a brandy, martini or liquor for that perfect after dinner drink?
This is a delightful restaurant with good, genuine food and reasonable prices (averaging £20 a head) considering its enviable location. We will definitely return! OPEN 7 DAYS NOON- MIDNIGHT
MODHUBON RESTAURANT
29 PEMBRIDGE ROAD
LONDON, W11 3HG
TEL: 020 7243 1778
