Saffron — Restaurant in England

Really disappointed in this place. Came in tonight and there happened to be a “buffet” — which it was not at all, it was a set menu from which you could order and they would bring to your table. Though the restaurant was nearly empty (only one other table), I never saw the supposed “unlimited” aspect of this buffet applied. I ordered Mulligatawny soup, lemon chicken masala, Bombay Aloo, pilau rice and garlic naan (one item from each “category” on the set menu. The waiter asked if I wanted papadum. Stupidly, I assumed it came with the “unlimited buffet” — nope. When I got the bill, that was £5 extra. Food came out lukewarm and underwhelming. It was edible but not tasty, and nothing I would repeat. I finished the papadum and the soup, then ate abour 1/4 of everything else, maybe a little less naan than that. (Btw, that naan was not garlic, it didn’t even have butter — dry as a nun’s fanny. Anyway… I was no longer hungry and the food wasn’t inspiring added calories so I just finished. The waiter — who was sweet enough — came over and asked if I wanted the food to go (after a friendly chastising for not eating more). I didn’t really want to take it but I didn’t want to be rude (or see food go to waste) so I said “ok” He left to (I assume) box the leftovers up for me and grab the check. What happened next was unpleasant: another waiter came rushing over to my table to scold me “No, buffet food can not be taken home!” In this really hostile, accusatory voice that made it seem like I was trying to cheat the system somehow. “No problem, he offered so I said yes, but I don’t really care.” He didn’t know what to say, just gave me a dirty look and ran off. I paid. Buffet was £14.95 — but because of the papadum and a Coke, I paid £25 for the most underwhelming meal I’ve had in ages. Total waste of time, wouldn’t bother...

I visited Saffron on a Tuesday evening with high hopes after reading some positive reviews, but I left feeling very disappointed. The food is marketed as Indian, but it lacked the authentic flavours and spices that define true Indian cuisine. Having travelled extensively across India and experienced a wide range of Indian dishes both there and around the world—including in London, where some of the best Indian restaurants can be found—I can confidently say that this meal fell far short of expectations.

The dishes lacked depth, spice, and the rich, aromatic qualities that make Indian food so special. Instead, it felt like a mass-produced meal with little care or authenticity. I understand that some restaurants may tone down flavours to cater to a wider audience, but that’s no excuse for serving food that feels uninspired. It genuinely seemed as though the chef had just thrown a few ingredients together without passion or attention to detail.

I didn’t even bother taking many photos of the other dishes we ordered because, frankly, there was no point. If you’re looking for real Indian food that delivers on flavour and authenticity, I’d suggest...

We popped in on Sunday for a table for 2, and their 'buffet', which is a selection of dishes you can order fresh. I understand people complaining about food waste but worry not, the portions they give are small on the buffet and being fresh the food was delicious and so tasty!

When we arrived there was no one else there, at just before 1pm, that was concerning but my worries were short lived!

The service was incredible, friendly, not overbearing and I wasn't watched whilst eating which is something I hate. They introduced themselves, asked our names, made jokes with us and honestly we couldn't ask for more.

The food as I said above was fresh, delicious and well worth the money. The presentation was perfect and honestly I wish I had more room in my stomach! I love my onion bhaji, and I always worry about grease, but these were crunchy, flavourful but not over powering which is just what I wanted. The lamb was tender, and with all dishes you can taste the marinade on the meat and the sauce, they balanced well and complimented each others flavour.

We will be back, and I am already planning a girls day with friends and...