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A muggy Wednesday evening didn’t seem the perfect time for a curry, however, Saffron restaurant, located on Banbury Road in Summertown, just a mile from the City Centre, was busy as ever. As a pupil at nearby St Edwards School, I have always wanted to experience Saffron for myself, and, at long last, I had my chance.
We were invited in with enthusiastic smiles, as chirpy waiters jovially chatted creating a vibrant atmosphere. They couldn’t have made us feel any more welcome. We chose to sit inside, although on a pleasant evening, ample seating is available outside. We were shown to a light, airy room with modern décor. The walls were splashed with a light yellow which complemented the wooden floor and the bright white table cloths, to create an effective and calming scene.
To begin our Saffron experience, we were served with an ample amount of Papadums, with an equally vast array of chutneys and pickles; each with a unique distinguishing taste. For starters, my companion ordered a Chicken Tikka Purée, a classic dish of high quality. The flavours of the Purée dazzled the palate into a trance of sweet and sour flavours. My Keema Piaz was equally excellent. The fresh, best quality ingredients made a noticeable difference.
Onwards to our mains! Not feeling so adventurous, I ordered the infamous Murgh Passanda, which was said to have a ‘delicate, mild creamy sauce with almond powder and red wine’. What a cocktail of flavours! My companion ordered the Duck Jalsha, a Saffron Speciality, with a delicious, succulent texture combining perfectly with the hot aromatic fusion of chillies, yoghurt, garlic and ginger. Both dishes were generous, delicious and carefully prepared.
Saffron has an exciting ambience; the comfortable rooms are redolent of the kitchen’s hard work. The food was first class, reflecting Saffron’s significant efforts to minimise artificial colours and additives in their dishes. The wine list is also extensive, suiting all budgets.
The restaurant’s impressive gourmet has been recognised with a number of awards including the Top 30 Best in Britain (BIBA) and a Gold Award from Quality Food Online Ltd, all of which, in my opinion, are fully deserved. The restaurant frequently hosts charity events, supporting charities such as Child Reach International and Helen and Douglas House. Over 12 years Saffron has become an exquisite restaurant, and our evening was excellent, with impeccable service and curry that has never tasted so good.
Reviewed by Patrick Burrows, St Edwards School
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