Remember the last time you had Indian food and how great it was, now times that by five and you have Mazza Namakar Lounge. Having only been open a week, this is an undiscovered wonder, soon to be huge on the Bristol restaurant scene.We were met at the door by Kasia and her slick team of friendly and professional front of house staff and treated to some India-inspired cocktails from the inventive menu. Here, timeless classics neighbour Indian inspired masterpieces, using only fresh, seasonal ingredients. I was amazed by the refreshing, clean taste of my watermelon and cucumber punch (non-alcoholic £2.25) while my companion (a hard-to-please Indian food expert) opted for a decadent Slum Millionaire champagne cocktail (£7.50). The knowledgeable mixologist rustled both up from scratch in no time at all.We felt it only right to sample the ‘Bitings Menu’ (£2.20-£5.50) and ordered some tasty Crispy Bhajias – very finely sliced potato in crispy gram flour batter. These were perfectly seasoned and a great accompaniment to our drinks.Namaskar’s décor is extravagant, boasting marble flooring imported from India and a very grand staircase to gastronomic heaven.The bar/lounge area is stylish and spacious and would lend itself well to a trendy party or high profile event.Upstairs we discovered an open kitchen which lines one side of the room – talented chefs in smart uniform were hard at work.We were soon so discover that the care and attention that went into the magnificent interior is mirrored in the fantastic food experience – Namaskar is definitely a place for a foodie!We were shown to our seats and Papad (Popadums) and Namaskar Pickles (slightly morish) were brought to our table.The chefs prepared a selection of delicious starters for us to try (£3.90-£7.90). This comprised of chicken, lamb and king prawns from the tandoor clay oven marinated to perfection, BBQ Paneer Tikka cheese and fresh naan bread.Our waiters were proud to recommend Grover Vineyard Indian wine to accompany our meal (£4.95 a glass) – I had Cabernet Shiraz which was an utter beast in a chilled glass with its smoky intense flavour (due to the terroirs) and a great compliment to the spicy banquet.My companion had a Sauvignon Blanc which was complex and oaky – again a perfect partner to our food.After a pause and a chat to digest the magnificent starters, a selection of mains arrived (£8.50-£19.60):All curries were cooked to perfection – the star of the show for me was a chicken Mirch – very hot and excellently spiced with distinctive flavours of black pepper corns and curry leaves. The Adrakh was also fabulous with its whole spices and ginger. We had well-cooked Jeera rice to accompany. We also enjoyed Saag Aloo and Chicken Patiala (a house special - omelette style dish with spinach stolen from a trip to Mumbai).The Indian breads were very good (all around £2.00) – we had a selection of Naans with fresh Nigella seeds, Chapati and a Roomali Roti cooked fresh in the tandoor. Hankering for something sweet, we opted for Gulab Jamoon to share - an Indian version of warm donuts floating in warm sweet syrup. This is a staple in most parts of India and for us, the perfect end to a perfect meal.Bristol certainly has an Indian restaurant to rave about – well done Namaskar!Reviewed by Catherine Farinha
