At Budleigh’s Taj Mahal restaurant, authenticity is reassured from the moment you step through the door.

Even on a dull, typically British winter evening, the Taj Mahal’s frontage beckons you in from the street with a warm glow. Step inside and you’re met with a nicely lit dining area – executive in style. Your attention is immediately grabbed by beautiful, hand-painted artwork, painted direct onto the white walls. A bright and ferocious tiger, a colourful array of spices and a village scene paying homage to Indian culture. It’s striking and feels true to its roots with its raw nature.

It’s easily accessible too, with just a small step into the restaurant and roadside parking right outside. But if there aren’t any spaces, there is a free car park just a two-minute walk away.

Indian hospitality is always something that impresses me, and it’s no different here. You will certainly feel very welcomed by the polite and friendly staff who take pride in this characteristic, and who want to make your experience enjoyable and comfortable throughout. Servers are happy to answer any questions to help guide you through their wide range of dishes and learn more about the history on a culinary journey of South Asian discovery.

The menu offers a wide range of dishes, representing all of the major regions of India. Expect all of the classics with additional specialties unique to the Taj Mahal. The Chef’s Special Treat really caught our attention with the strapline ‘sinful pleasures abound with every mouthful’.

With some tailored recommendations given, we selected a wonderful array of dishes. 

We particularly loved the Taj Mahal Special – a wonderful mix of tender chicken breast and mincemeat, cooked in a rich, herby sauce and flamed with sambuca! It was warming and just perfect. The King Prawn Green Masala was a real journey of flavour discovery too, with the green coming from their signature coriander paste. It paired well with the lemon rice as recommended. 

The restaurant was full of a mixture of families, work colleagues, and friends catching up, covering all age ranges from young couples to old friends. Portion sizes are sizable, but as the restaurant doubles up as a takeaway too, you’re well catered for if you’re unable to finish as leftovers are served into take away boxes to take home.

If you want to experience true Indian cuisine at an impressively reasonable price, in a wonderful atmosphere and with real authenticity – make your way to Budleigh’s Taj Mahal. A true taste of India awaits.

Words: Bev Ward