1. Home
  2. Travel
  3. London Travel

Mela Indian Restaurant

About.com Rating 4.5

By Laura Porter, About.com

Mela Restaurant, Shaftesbury Avenue, London

Mela Restaurant, Shaftesbury Avenue, London

© Laura Porter (2008) licensed to About.com, Inc.
The Bottom Line
Mela will surprise you as it actually serves authentic Indian dishes from all over India.
Pros
  • Theatreland location
  • Authentic Indian dishes
  • Very welcoming
  • Reasonable prices
Cons
  • Can get busy
Description
  • Address:
    Mela
    152-156 Shaftesbury Avenue
    Covent Garden
    London
    WC2H 8HL
  • Nearest Tube Stations:
    • Leicester Square
    • Covent Garden
  • Telephone:
    020 7836 8635
  • Official Web Site:
    www.melarestaurant.co.uk
Guide Review - Mela Indian Restaurant

Mela's menu may surprise you as it doesn't have the standard Indian dishes such as Chicken Tikka Masala which have been created for the English palate. Mela actually serves authentic Indian dishes from all over India. The dishes are clearly described on the menu and staff can elaborate further and also make recommendations. All food is freshly-prepared so staff can also advise you if there will be a wait for some dishes as they realize you may be on your way to the theater.

One of my friends didn't know the name of the Indian dish she wanted but she described it and they got it exactly right, making it taste better than she ever had before.

The menu may all surprise you as the prices are so reasonable for a West End location. Starters are under £5, main courses are about £10, and wine is around £15 making this a great value restaurant.

Mela has seating over two floors and can accommodate large groups and even have a set party menu to makes things easier. For couples and small groups you don't normally need to book but it's best to let them know in advance if there are lots of you so they can rearrange tables ready for your arrival.

I dined with friends visiting from the US and my one year daughter who was spoiled by all the staff. A baby highchair was provided and the staff kept on bring free samples for my daughter (and us) to try. The attentive staff entertained my daughter so we could eat our meal, without intruding on other diner's enjoyment. We would all recommend this restaurant as the staff are so welcoming and the food is delicious.

User Reviews Write Review
Explore London Travel
About.com Special Features

Find travel inspiration and get the best tips and reviews for your next getaway. More >

The best times to visit East and Southern Africa. More >

  1. Home
  2. Travel
  3. London Travel
  4. London Restaurants
  5. Restaurant Reviews
  6. Mela London Indian Restaurant Review - 152-156 Shaftesbury Ave, Covent Garden, London - Mela>

©2009 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company.

All rights reserved.