Memsaab - Banbury

Mem-Saab is a respectful term in India for a woman who wields natural authority because of her work or position. This unusual restaurant derives its name from the word and focuses on some wonderful British women, who made India their home during the days of the Raj. In addition to imbibing the local culture, they helped enrich it as well, and this exchange is reflected in Mem-Saab's carte.

Their menu has interesting sections and presents glimpses of British households of the time. The emphasis is on homemade dishes and some of the recipes are sourced from unexpected quarters like the Theosophical Society of India.

Malai seekh kebabs of ground lamb and spices are tasty and prawn or lentil filled puri breads do their job of whetting your appetite. Other conventional Indian starters such as deep fried cauliflower nuggets coated with a seasoned batter rub shoulders with anglicized inventions by Indian chefs of prawn salad with a wine and green pepper dressing. A 'tiffin' section offers comfort food with the likes of fillet of beef seasoned and complemented by horseradish and garlic butter or salmon concasse on a bed of boiled rice.

The numerous choices of vegetarian and tandoori fare are further strengthened by different kinds of sauces. You could choose to have your meal cooked to suit your palate in korma, karahi, rogan josh or Mughlai style. Of course, the staples of roti, naan breads and rice preparations complete a balanced meal.

Their relaxing bar serves classic wines, champagnes and spirits. Stop by at any of the branches at Banbury, Leamington or Northampton for a combination of traditional feel and contemporary sophistication, not to mention tasty food.