Raval Indian Brasserie - Gateshead

Raval is a hidden gem located on the Gateshead side of the river, offering a pleasant surprise for those who stumble upon it. The quality and originality of the food is remarkable, and the prices are surprisingly reasonable. The sea bass was expertly spiced, the naan bread was a unique and delicious departure from the norm, and we savored cocktails in the cozy bar area before being seated at our tables. Overall, Raval is a top-notch dining experience and perfect for a special occasion.

I went to Raval on Saturday night with a group of friends. The staff were initially attentive, but the service declined after our main course. The food was decent, but I've had better Indian meals, especially the ones I make at home. We had starters, main courses, drinks, and a cocktail, which we found to be reasonably priced. However, our total bill was high, with a service charge included despite their advertisement stating it is only mandatory for larger parties. The waitstaff neglected us towards the end of our meal, forgetting to offer coffee or dessert. The constant sound of glasses being dropped and broken disrupted our experience. Overall, we found the meal overpriced for the quality. I plan to try Golden Bengal next time for better food and a more authentic atmosphere. I would not return to Raval and would advise others to avoid it unless they enjoy being taken advantage of.

For my starter, I had the Marchi Awaini, which was fresh wild salmon marinated in Punjabi herbs and light spices, smoked in a tandoor. It was tender and flavorful, worth every penny. The manager personally checked on our dining experience and recommended dishes for the main course. I chose the Gosht Khada Masala, which was lamb cooked in a spicy Punjabi sauce with onion, tomato, mixed peppers, and whole spices. The lamb was incredibly tender and the spices enhanced the dish without overpowering it. I also ordered Basmati Rice and a Peshawari Naan stuffed with almonds, cashew nuts, and sultanas. Although I was tempted to order dessert, I was too full from the delicious meal. I saw on their website that they are introducing a new Indian Tapas menu, and I am excited to try it out. Overall, my experience at Raval was fantastic and I highly recommend it for quality Indian cuisine.