Authentic Indian Cuisine in Bridgnorth
In the Press
Food Review: Heights of flavour at the Himalaya, Bridgnorth
By Andy Richardson. Express & Star Published: Jan 23, 2022
Award-winning tandoori restaurant Himalaya is a fine blend of delicious food and polite service. Andy Richardson gives his verdict.
The lights were on but no-one was home. On a chilly midweek evening, Himalaya Tandoori was a beacon of warmth on Bridgnorth’s Whitburn Street. All it needed was a few customers.
As January bites and restaurateurs wonder where there next order is coming from, the Himalaya Tandoori was a sea of empty seats.
It must be soul-destroying to look out across an empty restaurant. Omicron wiped out the Christmas takings for most and customers habitually tighten belts – financially speaking – when January comes. It’s cold, there’s stuff on the TV and supermarkets are punting meal deals for those who can’t be fussed to cook.
Chefs do their prep, waiting for the buzz of service, while front of house staff look forward to providing service, if only there was someone to provide service to.
His restaurant has a good pedigree. It was invited to The Royal Lancaster Hotel in autumn last year to pick up the Curry Life Award for Customer Choice.
The exterior is a cool shade of grey while the interior is a like stepping back in time. While others seek out sleek, modernity, Himalaya is something of a throwback, with paper napkins and tables packed tight.
There are few frills – though plenty of thrills. This is the way curry houses used to be, with a friendly owner, efficient staff and deliciously spicy food.
Two waiters were on hand when I walked in for supper. They were wonderfully polite, asking if I’d like a break between courses, ferrying drinks and making sure food had been well received.
I started with the obligatory poppadoms and pickles.
An onion salad was pleasant, a fruit chutney was not too sweet, though there was nothing to suggest these were anything other than mass-produced accompaniments to the thin, crispy appetisers.
A chicken chaat provided a more substantial starter.
The chicken had been delicately spiced and the river of oil that habitually accompanies that dish was pleasingly absent.
There was no roti beneath – the dish was served instead with finely cut cucumber and tomato.
The cooling salad was a fine counterbalance to the spicy chicken and while the protein was a little overcooked the flavours were spot on.
A delicate spice blend showed skill from the chef and the plate was hastily dispatched.
The Himalaya has a welcome band of regulars and as the evening continued so they arrived.
Couples enjoying a midweek supper and friends congregating for a catch-up started to fill the tables.
Mr Miah greeted them by their names, delighting in the company of locals who support his restaurant.
The buzz started to grow and it became easy to understand why it wins so many votes in annual awards.
My main was a hot, spicy and sour chicken pathia with basmati rice.
It was damn near perfect. The sauce was magnificent. Sweet and tomatoey, the dish originated in Persia and has long been one of the UK’s favourites.
Coriander gave it a fragrant aroma while chillies and curry powder gave it a lip-tingling heat.
Spicier than the average dish, it was another example of good cooking from the kitchen, though once more the protein was cooked just a little too long. The balance of the dish, however, was fine.
The sauce was the thing – and, boy oh boy, that was good.
Local restaurants need our support as much as ever. The past two years have been frankly horrific with many suffering rent increases and facing considerable price hikes on energy costs.
The price of food is spiralling as higher costs feed into the supply chain and that squeezes margins yet further.
Few customers are in the mood to pay higher prices when they go to restaurants – if the prices aren’t frozen, most are staying at home as they calculate the missing pounds from their weekly budget.
Restaurants, therefore, have little option but to take the hit.
Himalaya is the sort of place that most towns have – a regular, no-frills neighbourhood curry house. It knows it’s customers well, provides great value for money and goes the extra mile with good service.
My bill, including a drink, was a little over £20, which represented impressive value from Mr Miah and co.
Bridgnorth has a crowded market with plenty of curry houses and Thai restaurants serving the local population.
Yet Himalaya stands tall and is one of the best. It offers remarkable value for money with low prices.
Himalaya has survived a number of challenges over the years and with a good team in the kitchen allied to caring, efficient staff, it’s well placed to bounce back as Covid restrictions ease and more people go out to eat.
By Andy Richardson
Kind-hearted restaurant boss savouring success at awards
One of the county’s oldest Indian restaurants has been presented with
the Curry Life magazine’s Customer Choice Award by TV presenter Mike Bushell.
The Himalaya Tandoori in Bridgnorth scooped the coveted title at the recent gala awards held at The Royal Lancaster Hotel in London, hosted by television presenters Angela Rippon and Mr Bushell.
Speaking at the awards Dave Miah, owner of the Himalaya Tandoori, said that he had been humbled by the award, a direct result of nominations and comments by customers from his local area. He added:
“We try our hardest to provide genuine traditional Indian dishes cooked to the highest standard while retaining a friendly and cosy environment for guests.”
Mike Bushell said: “One of the things that struck me is that this particular restaurant has such a close sense of being part of the community of this wonderful Shropshire town. In London I met with a whole family from nearby Albrighton that had travelled to be at the awards in order to support Himalaya Tandoori, the father explained to me that they had dined each and every week at the restaurant for 30 years."
The restaurant was praised for going the extra mile to support the vulnerable and those having to isolate during the pandemic.
Bridgnorth residents Phil and Brenda Holmes explained that they were aware of several instances where Dave Miah had ensured that a hot meal was delivered to Bridgnorth residents by his sons while the country faced lockdown.
Jeanette Bates who runs The Croft bed and breakfast in the town and provided accommodation for essential workers during lockdown said that she appreciated the extra effort that Dave and his sons made to ensure that essential workers staying were fed a good hot meal at the end of each day
The event was attended by The Mayoress of Bridgnorth, Councilor Sarah Barlow who said: “I don’t want to give my age away, but I have been eating at the Himalaya Tandoori for 42 years. The food is incredible, Dave you have served the community really well."
Deputy Mayor Councillor Karen Sawbridge added that it was lovely to be able celebrate with a Bridgnorth restaurant that had scooped a national award.
Editor of Curry Life Magazine, the award sponsors, Syed Belal Ahmed congratulated Dave Miah and the staff of the Himalaya Tandoori in Bridgnorth for being visible and supportive during a difficult pandemic year. We have recognized that many Indian restaurants shown unprecedented courage by delivering meals to support our care workers, the elderly and vulnerable. Their efforts have been appreciated by our communities."
Pat on the back as restaurant takes honours
One of Shropshire’s oldest Indian restaurants has been presented with the Curry Life magazine’s Customer Choice Award by TV presenter Mike Bushell.
The Himalaya Tandoori in Bridgnorth scooped the coveted title at the recent gala awards held at The Royal Lancaster Hotel in London, hosted by television presenters Angela Rippon and Mr Bushell.
Speaking at the awards Dave Miah, owner of the Himalaya Tandoori said that he had been humbled by this award, a direct result of nominations and comments by customers from his local area. He added: “We try our hardest to provide genuine traditional Indian dishes cooked to the highest standards while retaining a friendly and cosy environment for guests.”
Mike Bushell said: “One of the things that struck me is that this particular restaurant has such a close sense of being part of the community of this wonderful Shropshire town. In London I met with a whole family from nearby Albrighton that had travelled to be at the awards in order to support Himalaya Tandoori. The father said they had dined each and every week at the restaurant for 30 years.”
The restaurant was praised for going the extra mile to support the vulnerable and those having to isolate during the pandemic. Bridgnorth residents Phil and Brenda Holmes said they were aware of several instances where Dave Miah had ensured that a hot meal was delivered to Bridgnorth residents by his sons while the country faced lockdown.
Shropshire restaurants in for spicy night for charity
Things are spicing up throughout Shropshire in preparation for a national virtual charity night celebrating Indian cuisine.
By Rory Smith, Shropshire Star. Published: May 21, 2020
The Himalaya Tandoori in Bridgnorth are getting ready for The Big Curry Night In – an opportunity for the UK to come together under lockdown and enjoy the one of nation’s favourite dishes while helping feed thousands of people in South Asia.
Himalaya Tandoori Restaurant In the Press - Curry Life Awards 2019
'Legend' of Indian food industry wins
One of Shropshire's oldest Indian restaurants has scooped a national award.
Bridgnorth's Himalaya Tandoori won the Curry Life Editor's Choice Award after an intensive selection process followed by a public vote at the annual Curry Life awards ceremony. More than 800 people from hundreds of businesses across the UK gathred at the event in London's Hilton Park Lane, which recognises Britains best chefs and restaurants.
Based on Whitburn Street, the owner of Himalaya Toori, Dave Miah, was referred to as a "legend" of the Indian food industry by hosts Cathy Newman and Alan Shaw of Channel 4 News. Mr Miah said he felt "privileged" to serve food to a number of generations of families in Bridgnorth in his 40 years running the business in Shropshire.
He added: "I believe that it is the traditional Indian food that we serve within a friendly and homely atmosphere that has provided a comfortable environment for our customers."
The awards ceremony was held on Sunday and attended by business owners such as Karan Billimoria, founder of Cobra beer, who sponsored the event along with Just Eat.
L-R Andrew Kenny, of Just Eat, Dave Miah & Son Tufayal, and Cobra beer founder Karan Billimoria
Shropshire Star Newspaper Saturday 9th November 2019
Himalaya reaches new peak
One of Shropshire's oldest Indian restaurants has scooped a national award.
Indian restaurant wins national award
An Indian restaurant has scooped a national award.
Bridgnorth's Himalaya Tandoori won the Curry Life Editor's Choice Award after an intensive selection process followed by a public vote at the annual Curry Life awards ceremony.
More than 800 people from hundreds of businesses across the UK gathered at the event in London.
Based on Whitburn Street, the owner of Himalaya Tandoori, Dave Miah, was referred to as a "legend" of the Indian food industry by hosts Cathy Newman and Andrew Shaw.
Express & Star Newspaper Saturday 9th November 2019
Himalaya Restaurant Bridgnorth - In The Press - Curry Life Awards 2018
Dave Miah, second from right, receiving his award at the ceremony, London.
Bridgnorth Journal - Thursday 18th October 2018
Summit of success for Himalaya restaurant
A long established Indian restaurant in Bridgnorth has scooped a prestigious award for the second year running.
The Himalaya Tandoori Restaurant , in Whitburn Street, has won the Best Indian Restaurant in Shropshire award.
The popular curry house is now one of the oldest restaurants in the town, and has been serving traditional Indian food for nearly 40 years.
Dave Miah, the business owner, and his family attended a gala event in London last weekend. This year the annual celebration was hosted by Channel 4 news presenter Jon Snow. "My family and I were delighted to be in London and to receive this award" explained Mr Miah.
He added,m "After nearly 40 years I am proud of having a loyal customer base who appreciate traditional Indian cooking.
The Miah family cook with the finest ingredients, which are locally sourced wherever possible.
Mr Miah added: "Freshly sourced herbs are key to producing the rich flavours that are so important. In recent years a significant reduction in ghee and oil have appealed to the health conscious, adding a healthy options menu and dishes specifically for customers with diabetes".
The Mayor of Bridgnorth, Ron Whittle, will be attending the restaurant for a small private party to celebrate the restaurant's success.
The Curry Life Awards provides restaurant owners with a tough judging process and they recognise some of the top restaurants in the country.
Shropshire Star Newspaper 11th October 2018
Report by Amy Wall
Pictured Right: - Jon Snow, left, with Himalaya Tandoori Restaurant
Restaurant has no need to curry favour
An Indian restaurant has scooped a top award for the second year running.
Himalaya Tandoori Restaurant, in Whitburn Street, Bridgnorth, won the Best Indian Restaurant in Shropshire award. The popular restaurant is one of the oldest in the town, serving traditional Indian food for nearly 40 years.
Dave Miah, the business owner, and his family attended a gala event in London last weekend. This year the annual celebration was hosted by Channel 4 news presenter Jon Snow. My family and I were delighted to be in London and to receive this award" said Mr Miah.
"After nearly 40 years I am proud of having a loyal customer base who appreciate traditional Indian cooking.
"Freshly sourced herbs are key to producing the rich flavours that are so important. In recent years a significant reduction in ghee and oil have appealed to the health conscious, adding a healthy options menu and dishes specifically for customers with diabetes". The Mayor of Bridgnorth, Ron Whittle, will be attending the restaurant for a small private party to celebrate the restaurant's success.
The Curry Life Awards provides restaurant owners with a tough judging process and recognises some of the top restaurants in the country.
Summit of success for Himalaya Tandoori
A Indian restaurant has been named the best in Shropshire at a top awards ceremony. Bridgnorth's Himalaya Tandoori became the Best Indian Restaurant in Shropshire at the Curry Life Awards 2017.
The event was held at London's Royal Lancaster Hotel and was hosted by broadcaster Michael Buerk.
In an award that recognises the top 13 restaurants in the country, Bridgnorth's Himalaya Tandoori bagged the Shropshire accolade.
Owner, Dave Miah, said: "I am delighted to receive this award which is one of the most prestigious and I want to thank my customers and staff for helping me to achieve this."
The Himalaya has served authentic Indian food in Bridgnorth for more than 35 years.
Shropshire Star Newspaper 27/10/2017
Lovely food and prompt service
A modern shop front welcomed me to a small but inviting setting, writes Tom Langford.
The smell of fresh Indian cuisine played with my taste buds as I met Mr Choudhy, a well dressed and friendly staff member who soon directed me to my seat where I took a long look at the menu while enjoying the comfortable and bubbling atmosphere fit for a laid back quiet Wednesday evening. The Himalaya boasts modern Indian cuisine while playing homage to traditional recipes and practices.
The menu seemed to be full of well known and exciting dishes but I knew the real impression would be from the meal itself so I proceeded to order a starter of prawn salad and a glass of water was my first choice.
Indian I find can be quite filling so to start with a light option seemed just the trick. The salad garnished with a light and tasty thousand island dressing topped off a fresh and crunchy salad filled with large and juicy prawns.
Not too much but a good portion of prawns stirred my appetite ready for my main meal.
The gorgeous smell of fresh herbs and spices hit me as my main course of special fresh water king prawns had been brought out.
As you can see I like my sea food and this connoisseur could not have been more pleased.
Succulent and delicious the king prawns in a sweet sauce really fused together to create a fantastic dish alongside fresh peppers and spicy peppers, onion and salad the meal was a treat. Also for my enjoyment a naan bread and egg fried rice accompanied my meal.
Quite often it is far too easy to point out faults or scrutinise to the enth degree but at the Himalaya Bridgnorth I was hard pushed to find anything to be disappointed by. The service was prompt and friendly, the food was fantastic. The stage has been set for an outstanding night out enjoying fine food and just like I expected I had become very full on the hearty portions Overall I had been spoilt by the gracious and professional staff.
Owner Mr D Miah said “ I am so proud to serve the community for so many years and I have seen three generations enjoy my food.”
If you are in the area pop in or if you have a special occasion why not call and book at the Himalaya Bridgnorth (01746) 766522.
Tom Langford, Bridgnorth Journal, July 2015
Family’s hopes to serve up cash aid
St Mary’s Bluecoat School pupil Tajwar Ahmed has donated £255 of his savings and his Father, David Miah, who owns the Himalaya Tandoori Restaurant in Whitburn Street, is laying on special Bangladesh meals on Monday nights to raise money to help.
Mr Miah said: “I am hoping that the meals will raise £10,000. A two-course meal meal will cost £10 and I am hoping that as many people as possible will be able to come along, because the people of Bangladesh desperately need our help.”
He added that he would also be putting £1,500 of his own money into the cause.
Although he was born here, Tajwar regularly returns to Bangladesh to see family and friends and is acutely aware of the horrendous conditions of its residents, having also seen the situation on TV.
Mr Miah added, “I have been back to Bangladesh regularly as well and it was bad when I last went but it has since got worse.”
In 2005 he organised a menu for the tsunami disaster appeal. Anyone who would like to book a meal should call (01746) 765239.
Shropshire Star, September 2007
Dishes for Diabetics
A Bridgnorth restaurant owner has introduced a low fat and diet menu, including special dishes for diabetics.
Dave Miah, who has run the Himalaya Tandoori Restaurant in Whitburn Street for 30 years, is a diabetic and recognised the need.
Photographer Simon Devey went along to sample the food with his wife Barbara and enjoyed the experience.
Bridgnorth Journal, June 2007
“We started with a poppadom, served with a wonderful home made warm mango chutney, follllowed by baked fishcakes, lightly spiced with ginger, garlic and coriander, served with a fresh side salad. This was followed by a dish of delicately spiced chicken, spinach and okra, served with boiled rice and baked wholemeal flat bread. To finish we enjoyed the most succulent mango, which really helped to cleanse the palate.
“From the moment we were greeted by Dave at the door, to the point at which we left the restaurant, we were never hurried, the portions were generous and the surroundings pleasant.”
Stephanie Baginski is seen here sampling the new menu at the Himalaya Tandoori Restaurant and being served by David Miah and his son Tajwar Ahmed. Picture: Simon Devey.