A warmly hosted neighborhood Bangladeshi/Indian spot with consistently praised flavors and standout hospitality; portions and pricing draw some pushback, especially on takeaways.
Taste of Nawab delivers solid A-grade performance through exceptional food quality with clean, distinct flavors and outstanding service attentiveness anchored by owner Abdul's warm hospitality. Consistency shows some variation in takeaway execution, and the modest neighborhood setting lacks destination appeal, preventing the higher tier. Strong loyalty and reliable dine-in experiences position this as a respected local favorite rather than a regional standout.
The room feels warm and relaxed, a cozy North London spot where the owner greets tables and birthdays get a cheerful serenade. A guest summed it up: "They made us feel like family", with attentive check-ins that stop short of hovering most nights. Expect a steady stream of takeaways alongside dine-in regulars, and a crowd that skews local over tourist. The cooking leans classic Bengali and North Indian with house touches—think dopiaza, bhuna, grills, and regional dishes like duck and tilapia—so the culinary approach feels elevated traditional rather than flashy fusion. Dishes are praised for clean, distinct flavors and well-judged spice; a few takeaways report under-seasoning or dryness on off nights. If you like reliable, well-executed curries and tandoori with friendly guidance on heat levels, you are in the right place. Families are welcome, and the dedicated kids menu (mild korma and mini tandoori) makes ordering easy. Portions on mains satisfy, though rice and some sides can feel small for the price. BYO with no corkage keeps costs in check for groups, and celebratory touches (like birthday cake moments) are common.
Area vibe: Leafy North London neighborhood with a strong local community vibe and family-oriented dining.
Safety: Generally safe and well-kept with steady foot traffic on main roads.
What's nearby: Near Muswell Hill/Colney Hatch corridors; frequent bus routes; mix of residences and small shops.
Start with the Onion Bhaji and choose between the Tandoori Mixed Grill, Lamb Chops, Shahi Duck or a Biriani depending on how adventurous you feel
It is a casual, BYO-friendly spot with a kids menu, but watch for small rice/side portions and weekend crowds
A warm, neighborhood spot where the owner greets tables and birthday celebrations can turn the room lively