Spice Lounge — Restaurant in North Island

Being a fairly new-ish Kiwi who emigrated from the UK (16years ago). I like to think I can spot a good Indian restaurant, and there are some really bad ones out there! Spice Lounge is by far one the best Indian restaurants in the Kapiti region. Every dish is unique and flavorsome, you can tell the ingredients are fresh and substantial. The staff are friendly and prompt and patient. The costs are average (not overpriced) for this type of food and I have made this my regular takeaway! for the last year or so. and oh yes they do have in house dining. I can't comment about the BYO or in house alcoholic drinks as I don't drink, but there seems to be a good range on offer behind the bar. Something to note tho... Since the big hit from the pandemic, the meals no longer come with complementary rice? yes I know that sounds weird but if that's what they had to do to stay open through this tough time then I will go with it! 5*'s : updated review: after visiting the Spice Lounge the menu and chefs have changed since my initial review, the food I would now consider sub par, based on other Indian restaurants in the Kapiti region. If you want good Indian food I would suggest Himalayan Kitchen now. sorry Spice Lounge, when you changed owners/chef etc.. the food has...

Booked a table for 12 people for my partners birthday we also had two pregnant women and 2 young children we came in and the staff ignored us we stood there for 15 minutes trying to get there attention then gave up and just decided to sit down in what we assumed was our table it took them 45 minutes to ask us for drinks and the staff were all over the place missing drinks or getting them wrong or again ignoring us I then asked how long food would take as the pregnant ladies and my children were getting uncomfortable and hungry I was told another 15 minutes until we could even order by this time we had already been there for an hour and 15 I left as my kids were too hungry but I was told by my partner that the food took over an hour and again things were wrong or missing and the staff were all over the place ..... in summary was disgusting service and I hope no one has to go...

I was really craving some authentic indian and after reading the reviews I drove a little extra to come here. The meal was beautiful. I ordered Mughlai Paneer for my friend (medium) and Chicken Tikka Masala (extra hot) the spice level was perfect for me! I had to take a wee break near the end which is exactly how I like my indian, I really love a spicy dish and it can be hard to find, so the fact they had that option made me very happy. The flavours were intense and balanced. It was just what I needed and I was so satisfied. My friend prefers a more mild curry and he really enjoyed his too, I tasted it and was impressed. The staff were incredibly sweet and good natured so I highly recommend this place :-) I will definitely visit again before I leave...