Mezbaan is Edinburgh's only restaurant dedicated to just traditional and authentic South Indian cuisine. We are now open for lunch. If you are short for time you can sample our express menu or for a more relaxed our a la carte menu.
Balbir's
- Food served: Sun–Thu 5–10.30pm; Fri/Sat 5–11pm
- Number of wines sold by the glass: 8
- Delivery: free, but limited range to ‘local’ area
- Also offers: Vegetarian options (at least 25% of main courses), Gluten-free options, Children's portions, Children's high chairs, Wheelchair access, Takeaway
- Music on stereo: easy listening
- Capacity: 130
- Largest group: 80
- Open since: 2005
- Average price 2 courses: £16
- House wine: £11.95 per bottle
This review appears in the The List's Eating & Drinking Guide 2008 – in the shops now or buy online.
Balbir's modern interior is plush and well lit, decorated in warm reds and clean whites, and the space is large and open enough for bigger parties while still accommodating those looking for a more intimate meal. The food is as modern as the setting. The kitchen at Balbir's prides itself on giving a healthy twist to the traditional curry. The extensive menu offers a variety of freshly cooked dishes using locally sourced ingredients, but no food colouring, with low-fat options highlighted with green apple icons. There are lots of vegetarian dishes and, since Balbir's uses rapeseed oil instead of ghee, there is plenty for vegans to enjoy, too. Fluffy pakoras are crisp and very light, while a starter of mussels comes in a thick garlic and coriander broth with a soft, warm bhatura naan on the side. Chicken palack balances spiciness with the wholesome flavours of fresh spinach and mustard leaf. The lamb bhindi contains lean, melting meat with nicely cooked okra in a satisfyingly rich sauce that belies its status as a healthy choice. For those interested in the set 'banquet style' meal (£17.50 a head) waiters inquire about particular tastes, allergies and dietary requirements of the dining party and then suggest dishes.
- High point: So good you don't notice it's healthy
- Low point: Can feel a bit formal
Comments
- 1. Andy D, Glasgow – 19 May 2008, 8:30pm
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Very nice food. One of the best Indians in Glasgow. the banquet is a must. They do takeaway as well which is great as we live just around the corner.
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