A highly regarded, family-run Indian restaurant with generous, flavourful curries, welcoming service and an unusually useful BYOB policy, though a small set of recent and older reviews reports serious inconsistency in food and hospitality.
Moonlight Tandoori delivers strong food quality and attentive service that keep diners returning, with a loyal following built on generous portions and excellent value for money through its BYOB model. Consistency across repeat visits anchors the experience, though the modest dining space and occasional preparation variance prevent it from reaching the very top tier. A reliable neighborhood favorite that executes its core mission exceptionally well.
Moonlight Tandoori is a small, relaxed Indian restaurant in the heart of historic Lostwithiel, with the sort of welcoming, conversational hosting that makes visitors feel quickly settled. Reviewers repeatedly describe prompt service, comfortable dining, and an atmosphere that is more friendly family curry house than polished destination restaurant; one recurring practical bonus is that the Co-op sits opposite for BYO drinks. The cooking is classic Indian restaurant fare rather than experimental, with broad choice across mild and spicy curries, tandoori dishes, biryani, dal, bhindi, rice, and fresh naan. Garlic naan, peshwari naan, lamb tikka korai, chicken tikka pathia, karahi, and madras receive especially warm mentions. The overall pattern is impressively positive and locals return often, although a small group of reviews reports overly sweet or unbalanced dishes, disappointing biryani, or poor takeaway portions. Families should find the menu approachable: reviewers mention enjoyable meals with teenagers and groups ordering vegan, vegetarian, and meat dishes, while familiar curry, rice, naan, and adjustable spice levels offer plenty of choice. It is not a dedicated children’s restaurant, and the absence of a supplied menu means exact kids’ options cannot be verified, but the review evidence suggests a good fit for family dining.
Area vibe: Historic market-town area with a quiet, rural and tourist-friendly vibe.
Safety: Generally safe and quiet with low crime, but streets can be dimly lit and less busy at night.
What's nearby: Close to Lostwithiel town centre, near the River Fowey, local shops, pubs and the railway station.
Start with lamb tikka korai or chicken tikka pathia, then add one of the freshly praised naans, but choose biryani with some caution.
Bring your own alcohol, consider booking for a busy evening, and keep in mind that takeaway portions and dish consistency are not always reliable.
Expect a welcoming family curry-house atmosphere with quick service, relaxed group dining, and occasional rough edges when the room is busy.