The Gurkha

I’d been labouring under the misunderstanding that the Clay Oven was the pick of the bunch of the Morningside Indian restaurants, but after a recent visit had revealed it to be decent but a bit unspectacular, I made a note to check out the others. Next up on that particular quest was The Gurkha.

Not to be confused with the Gurkha Brigade (now closed) or the impressive Gurkha Cafe on Cockburn Street, The Gurkha is another in the good number of Nepalese restaurants we have in the city.

It’s quite a compact place, but has room for around thirty, I guess. I was warmly welcomed by the friendly, smiling staff, then squeezed into one of their window tables.

I took a good few minutes to contemplate their extensive menu, so was glad when poppadoms were suggested to nibble on while I thought. The pickle tray was very good, with outstandingly good lime pickle the highlight.

I eventually settled upon chana puri to start then followed with solukhambu lamb, a plain naan and saag aloo.

The starter soon arrived looking neat and tidy. The puri looked light, bubbly and fresh. It proved to be very tasty indeed with the chickpeas delicious and the bread very nicely made. I was impressed.

The main course was even better. Strips of lamb were cooked along with minced lamb in a richly spiced sauce. Together with the saag aloo, it came together for a sort of wondrous Nepalese mince and tatties. It made me very happy indeed.

So overall, The Gurkha served me two very good dishes and service was spot on throughout. Pending visits to Morningside Spice and Himalaya, this appears to be the best place for this cuisine in the neighbourhood. I’d recommend a visit.

Scores
Blythe scores The Gurkha
4/5 for food
3.5/5 for presentation
3.5/5 for setting
4/5 for service
giving an overall 15/20

I ate: poppadoms and pickle tray, chana puri, lamb solukhambu, saag aloo, naan

I drank: lager

I wore: white shirt

Total bill: £25.90