A warmly hosted, small Quayside Indian restaurant with standout seafood, broad vegetarian choice and generally excellent food, though occasional diners report rushed service, small portions and inconsistent dishes.
Simla Restaurant delivers strong food quality anchored by fragrant curries, tender meats, and skilled breads, paired with warm, attentive service that keeps diners returning across years. Consistency remains solid though occasionally uneven, and the intimate Quayside setting appeals to special occasions without reaching destination status, keeping it just short of the very top tier.
Simla is a small, warmly decorated Indian restaurant on Newcastle's Side near the Quayside, where the welcome is as memorable as the cooking. Reviews describe intimate lighting, artwork and a room that feels cozy rather than formal; one recurring impression is that returning diners are greeted more like friends than customers. The senior team is frequently praised for personal hosting, though a few guests report waits, rushing or sales pressure. The cooking is regionally minded and more adventurous than a generic curry-house menu, moving from Goan fish curry and Malabar prawns to Chettinad, Bengali, Kashmiri and Parsi-inspired dishes. Seafood, lamb, naan and vegetarian plates are the consistent stars, and the current menu gives vegetarians plenty to explore. Most diners find the prices reasonable for the quality, although portion-size and execution complaints—especially in older reviews—mean this is not entirely criticism-proof. Families are welcome, and the menu offers approachable choices such as chicken korma, chicken tikka masala, butter naan, rice, ice cream and gulabjamun alongside more complex curries. One family specifically reported that a picky child ate everything. It is a good family option, but adventurous regional dishes dominate the identity, so cautious eaters should order familiar sides or mild curries.
Area vibe: Vibrant city-centre area known for nightlife, shopping, and dining.
Safety: Generally busy and well-lit in evenings though pockets can be lively and noisy late at night.
What's nearby: Close to Newcastle Cathedral, Northumberland Street shops, Grey's Monument and public transport hubs.
The menu is strongest on regional seafood, lamb, and vegetarian dishes, with the Goan Fish Curry and Chingri Malai Curry among the best starting points.
Book ahead for the small dining room, budget for sides and drinks, and know that service and portion sizes can occasionally disappoint.
Expect an intimate, artwork-filled room that feels welcoming and cozy, although busy services can become rushed.