All quiet on the Zone 1 front

Aik Sitar review - 10/05/24

A relatively ‘new’ restaurant to the Zone 1 curry scene, Aik Sitar promises classic, quality food with a menu that will satisfy the most discerning of taste buds.

The OCC headed to the strand to try Aik Sitar, with a wave of positive Google Reviews whetting the appetite.

Formerly the site of an Indian restaurant called Shapur, it’s unclear whether the owners are the same or not.

However, what is clear is that Aik Sitar on this evening was severely lacking in atmosphere. A lack of guests and background music made for a somewhat sombre experience.

As is standard, the OCC ordered popadoms with alllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllll the sauces to start. While the portion sizes were good, all the sauces it certainly weren’t. For a venue that boasts former guests including John Major and Boris Johnson, it was a conservative offering.

However, a very tasty lime pickle was available upon request.

While let down by its atmosphere – picking up an OCC average score of just 5.42 – members were more impressed by the quality and value of the meal. At roughly £50 per head, the price was at the more reasonable end of the Z1 scale.

An impressive 7.42 for quality was logged, with members saying the quality of food was ‘very good’ and ‘excellent’. This member always appreciates the choice of Cobra or Kingfisher, which was indeed available at Aik Sitar.

The table starter Papdi Chat brought an element of the street food experience to Covent Garden, while other orders – such as new member Dennis’ choice of special fried rise – raised some eyebrows.

Overall, a restaurant that will satisfy the tastebuds and the wallet, but not those in search of a lively evening.

SCORES

Customer care - 6.38

Service - 6.92

Value - 7.33

Quality - 7.42

Atmosphere - 5.42

Overall 6.69