As a self-confessed curry connoisseur, I’m always on the lookout for restaurants that serve authentic, flavour-packed Indian cuisine — and Bagaara in Shinfield certainly delivered. From the moment we walked in, the restaurant felt warm, welcoming, and full of life. It was pleasantly busy, creating a vibrant, buzzing atmosphere, yet still cozy and inviting. The staff greeted us with genuine friendliness, setting the tone for a truly enjoyable evening.
Our starters set the bar high. I chose the Gobi 65 (£8) — golden, crisp cauliflower florets coated in a light, spiced batter. Each bite had the perfect balance of crunch and warmth, leaving a lingering hint of spice that was utterly addictive. My husband savoured the Bagaara Chicken 65 (£8), tender pieces of chicken with a deep, aromatic flavour and a satisfying light crunch. Our son’s Tandoori King Prawns were served meaty, sizzling, smoky, and juicy — each prawn perfectly marinated, with a subtle char that elevated every bite.image0.jpeg
Moving on to mains, I opted for the Coriander Chicken (£12), and it was a triumph. The sauce was bright, fragrant, and herby, with tender chicken pieces that practically melted in the mouth. My husband’s Mirch Masala (£12) was bold and rich, full of layers of heat and spice that were exciting, but not for the faint hearted!! Our son’s Butter Chicken (£12) was the ultimate comfort dish: creamy, indulgent, and luxuriously smooth, with just the right hint of sweetness and aromatic spices. We paired our main courses with fluffy pilau rice and freshly baked naan breads, perfect for soaking up the vibrant sauces. The portions for the main courses were impressively generous.image1.jpeg
To finish, our son couldn’t resist Gulab Jamun, and it was divine. The dumplings were soft, syrup-soaked, and melt-in-the-mouth sweet, with a fragrant syrup that made each bite feel like a warm, indulgent hug — the perfect ending to an extraordinary meal.
Every aspect of our visit to Bagaara impressed us: the food was full of character, vibrant, and expertly seasoned, the service was attentive, professional and warm, and the bustling yet welcoming atmosphere made the experience feel truly special.
If you’re looking for authentic Indian cuisine with bold flavours and a lively, inviting vibe, Bagaara in Shinfield is an absolute gem. We left thoroughly satisfied and are already planning our next visit!
