Where to go for curry in Islington

On a recent pub excursion in Upper Street, a group of my friends complained about an apparent lack of good Indian cuisine in Islingotn. Their booze-fuelled whinges got me to thinking where you can get a curry in the borough, and whether I was missing any hidden gems.

While Islington is not as liberally packed with curry houses as many parts of

London, there are certainly options, and plenty of them if you know where to look (it usually helps if you can venture up Holloway Road a little!)  There is less in the way of the sort of 'dirty' curry one might be tempted to order after a night at the pub, but in my book that's no bad things! Here are a few of places I've eaten (and enjoyed) curries in Islington.

Emni

Emni on Upper Street is a slightly 'nouvelle cuisine' style curry house with all sort of fun design trappings like a bright red spiral staircase and faux post box in one of the walls. The food's not bad either, but those with big appetites may need to order extra portions. Best for dates and intimite encounters, it's a classy, candle-lit sort of place that takes its time to get things right.

Biriyani

Biriyani at 201 Holloway Road is probably closer to the 'dirty curry' that my inebriated friends were craving, but don't let that put you off! The food is decent quality, cheap and not too spicy for those with a more delicate palate. The restaurant is generally pretty quiet, and most local residents come in for takeaways. But there's always plenty of room to sit in if you want to, and the staff are friendly.

Red Rose Tandoori

The Red Rose at 597 Holloway Road near Archway Tube is a fun and lively place, claiming to be a favourite haunt of rock band The Darkness (who have posed with the owner on several occasions, so it's probably a fair enough claim). The restaurant itself is fairly small, so it's another popular takeaway option, but I'm told that sitting in is highly recommended if you're looking for an entertaining night out. As for the food, reports vary - but all point towards a decent quality of British-Indian cuisine.

Masala Zone

If all else fails, there's always Masala Zone! The chain offers consistently fast, tasty and spicy dishes at affordable prices in its bright and central surroundings.

Tiffin Tin

As a takeaway only option, Tiffin Tin's quality is second-to-none. Fresh, delicious and never oily, it's a good option for Islington, Holloway, Highbury and indeed most parts of North London. Be careful though - once you've got their number in your phone, you'll find you want to use it again...and again. I know people who wouldn't move house before checking they were still in its catchment area!

[Image: Paper or Plastic?]