Waddle This Way: Duck Masala Dreams at Kathmandu Lounge

When the Oakham Curry Club sets its sights on a new culinary adventure, expectations are always high — and Kathmandu Lounge certainly gave us plenty to talk about. Situated in the heart of Peterborough, this restaurant serves up a menu that bridges bold Indian classics with Nepalese flair, all delivered with an impressive level of polish and care.

First Impressions

Walking into Kathmandu Lounge, we were greeted with a calm, ambient space — modern but not sterile, inviting but not overdone. What truly set the tone, however, was the warmth of the staff. From the very first interaction, their attentiveness and knowledge shone through. This wasn’t just table service; this was hospitality and passion in its true form.

The Star of the Show: Duck Grill Masala

We’ve sampled many meats in masalas over the years, but Kathmandu Lounge’s Duck Grill Masala stands out as a truly exceptional creation. The duck itself was perfectly grilled — smoky and tender with a beautifully crisped edge — then enveloped in a masala sauce that was rich, layered, and utterly addictive. The balance of spices allowed the natural flavour of the duck to shine, making each bite feel both indulgent and refined.

This dish alone would be reason enough to return.

A Vindaloo with Bite

Of course, no OCC outing would be complete without a test of a restaurant’s heat credentials, and Kathmandu’s vindaloo passed with flying colours. It was everything you’d want from the dish — hot, bold, slightly tangy, and deeply warming. While some places confuse spice with simply ‘making it hotter’, here the heat had purpose, woven expertly into the flavours rather than overpowering them.

Other Highlights & Pricing

We sampled a range of dishes from the menu — from classic curries to tandoori sides — and not a single one disappointed. Portions were generous, ingredients tasted fresh, and the presentation had a modern edge, all being washed down with cold crisp pints of Cobra.

The price point was slightly above what we initially expected, but when weighed against the quality of the food and the exceptional service, it felt justified. This is not your average high-street curry house — it’s a dining experience that respects both tradition and refinement.

Customer Service That Elevates

It’s easy to overlook service when the food is good — but here, it was impossible not to notice. Every server was attentive without being intrusive, knowledgeable without being overbearing. Recommendations were spot-on, dishes tailored to individuals’ needs and the staff took a genuine interest in how we were enjoying the meal.

It’s rare to find a place where service complements the food so seamlessly.

Final Verdict

Kathmandu Lounge is more than a restaurant — it’s a celebration of flavour, hospitality, and attention to detail. The OCC left thoroughly impressed from a restaurant worthy of an OCC sticker.

If you're looking for a dining experience that offers both bold curries and elevated dishes with finesse — this is your next stop.

SCORES: Customer Care = 7.6, Service = 7.7, Value = 6.9, Quality = 7.9, Atmosphere = 7.6

Total = 7.54