Saag Chicken at Sai SurbhiHeading down to try Sai Surbhi (formerly Double Tree in Fulwood) for the first time with Ed was as refreshing as it was impressive.

Having tired some time ago of the upmarket style of Indian cuisine, I’ve recently settled into old school curry houses. There’s something about the down to earth style that just pips the flashes of the more contemporary style.

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With all that in mind, my habitual place has become the King Karai. It’s having tried Sai Surbhi that I realise the habit might need to be broken and it’s great to be able to say that.

There’ll be no comparisons here because the styles are completely different but what it does offer is something equally satisfying.

Poppadoms and dips at Sai Surbhi

Poppadoms are served plentiful – though the choice of dips is somewhat scarce and the amount given not the most plentiful. The quality of it all is perfectly sound, however.

For starter I go for Paneer Pakora while Ed grabs himself Vegetable Manchurian. Both are impressive and plentiful. The pakora in particular is coated in a flavour that recalls the Bombay mix I used to have while I waited for a curry when I was younger. It’s really nostalgic and a lovely touch.

Paneer Pakora at Sai Surbhi

The rest of the starter menu is much the same as you get in many similar places, though it’s worth noting some of the seafood definitely looks impressive.

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My main takes me through Naga Chicken with Mushroom Pilau Rice. Immediately, it’s obvious the mushrooms are fresh rather than dried which is a pitfall many places fall into no matter what the budget is. The curry has that distinctive Naga flavour and the chicken is of a good quality. If there’s a complain to be made its that it probably doesn’t constitute a ‘very hot’ rating.

Vegetable Manchurian at Sai Surbhi

Ed tries Saag Chicken with Variety Pilau Rice. The Saag is noticeably flavoured with Fenugreek and, as with my mushroom option, the choice of side dish really adds substance to the overall experience.

Naan bread is served thin, crispy and cut into quarters. It’s a world apart from the filling efforts you can get in many takeaways.

Naga Chicken at Sai Surbhi

The overall impression is that if I was going to recommend one of the more upmarket Indian restaurants in Lancashire to friends, then I’d go with Sai Surbhi. They did know we were coming, so we’ll be heading back at some point of Christmas to do a review proper. Until then, it’s definitely worth a night of your time.

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Blog Preston was a guest of Sai Surbhi, the meal was complimentary and they knew we were coming. We went along so we could give you an idea of what it’s like. This isn’t a review, it’s a taste test.