A genuinely useful Hendon Central find for generous Indian food, friendly service and live sports, with a lively pub setting and occasional booking or delivery disappointments.
The Arena Club delivers solid food quality and attentive service that keep diners returning, anchored by consistently praised Indian dishes and friendly hospitality. The hidden trackside setting near Hendon Central offers distinctive charm, though the design feels understated rather than polished. Strong execution across core dimensions prevents a higher grade from being held back by ambiance alone.
The Arena Club is the sort of place Hendon Central commuters can walk past for months without realizing there is a serious curry kitchen downstairs. Reviews describe a relaxed, lively sports-pub atmosphere with screens, music, a pool table and the unusual sight of Underground trains passing alongside the dining area. One recurring reaction is essentially: the doorway looks doubtful, but the meal is a pleasant surprise. The cooking is classic, generous Indian food rather than experimental dining. Biryani, curries, tandoori dishes, breads and vegetarian plates receive the strongest praise, while the full bar and match-day energy make it especially appealing for casual groups. Service is usually warm and attentive, and the value is unusually persuasive for London, although delivery reliability and one large-group booking have drawn criticism. Families are welcome according to reviews, and diners report a safe, friendly atmosphere plus plenty of vegetarian and vegan choices. There is no current menu to verify child-specific dishes, so parents should confirm familiar options in advance; the sports-bar noise and busy match nights may suit older children better than toddlers seeking a quiet meal.
Area vibe: Suburban-commercial district with diverse retail and eating options and strong commuter links.
Safety: Generally safe by day with typical urban evening footfall; some streets quieter after late night.
What's nearby: Near Cricklewood Broadway, Cricklewood station, local shops, pubs, and community centres; accessible from A5 and nearby bus routes.
The safest orders lean toward lamb biryani, butter chicken, and the mixed grill, with several substantial vegetarian choices too.
It is convenient and friendly, but match nights can be loud and crowded, parking is reportedly unavailable, and larger groups should book ahead.
The unusual trackside dining view is part of a lively sports-pub atmosphere that becomes louder and busier during fixtures.