I discovered four Indian restaurants in Tewkesbury, although two were closed at the time of my visit in late March 2000. Both of those which were closed were in Barton Street. One - Eastern Eye at number 21 - had only recently closed but it wouldn’t have got my custom anyway. The single large window at the front was totally covered by a large, orange garish menu which made it look tacky as well as preventing seeing through the window (despite appearances I have since been told that the food is good, but service slow). The other - Pundits at number 32 - was closed and devoid of furniture but had tools etc. inside and was being painted on the outside so obviously was being refurbished. Whether it will remain as Pundits or change to a different name or management remains to be seen. As it is I don’t think Pundits lasted too long as a few years ago it was called the Tewkesbury Tandoori!

The two which were open were the Nirala at 69 Church Street and Rajshahi in the High Street. The former has also had a recent name change as it used to be called Munira, but whether this is a change of ownership of simply change of name I don’t know. It looked pleasant enough with a fairly standard menu although it was slightly more expensive than the Rajshahi. The Rajshahi was newer, having been open for only about a year and this, coupled with the fact it was the ‘high street’ Indian, I chose to eat there. On balance I’m not sure it was a good choice !

Malcolm Wilkins - March 2000