Koinonia South Indian Restaurant — Restaurant in Newark and Sherwood

This was our first visit to the Koinonia, we just called on the off chance as it was our anniversary. We didn’t expect much atmosphere on a Sunday teatime, though that didn’t spoil the experience at all. The staff were so friendly and welcoming, the service was outstanding! We were not rushed, they left perfect timing between starters and mains, then even asked if we were ready for our mains, just perfect! The presentation of our starters ( the Mala Kozhi fry which was spicy and succulent and the Spinach and Onion Vada which had a nice crisp finish with not a bit of grease in sight!) was beautiful, very tasty too. Our mains of grandmothers lamb curry and the Peralan chicken curry were both enjoyable. Our only minor disappointment was the side order of rice with dried fruits and nuts. We did expect them to be at least a handful mixed in with the rice, but instead there were just a tiny few sprinkled on top of the dish. This was more of a minor observation, a preference rather than a complaint! The portion sizes were just right, the prices seemed a little on the high side but then the food was of quality so to be expected. Our visit was made all the more enjoyable by the relaxed friendly manner of the team, well done Koinonia! You are doing a great job and we will be back! Thank you to all,...

I visited this south Indian restaurant yesterday, and while the food was okay, the service left a lot to be desired. The staff member who served us was not friendly or inviting, and was downright rude in denying our requests. It felt like he had an attitude, and I suspect he may have been a manager.

The menu choices were also quite limited, and it was strange when he asked us to order sides for the poori. It seemed odd to me, especially since I've had plenty of South Indian food before. The sambar vada was also a disappointment - the sambar was old, and the vada was rubbery.

To make matters worse, he first said that the parroto would take some time, and then said that it was not available at all. It would have been better if he had confirmed the menu availability when we made our booking via the website, so that we could have planned accordingly.

On the positive side, the masala beef curry and nadan cootu erachi Kari were delicious. However, the overall experience was marred by the negative attitude of the staff member who served us.

All things considered, I do not think I will be visiting this restaurant again. The food was just okay, and the service was not up to par. If you do plan to visit, I would advise you to confirm the menu...

The food was beyond belief. For anyone unfamiliar with south east Indian food thinking of trying something new and perhaps light from their menu, I recommend the Dosa. I have never tried such fantastic dosa anywhere in UK. This stuff is authentic as it gets.

The venue itself in terms of interior is not the most modern or spotless looking, just looking at that wonky fire exit sign made me think this was not going to be a good meal out. But boy was I surprised!

The lassie was far above the average and mundane varieties you get in most Indian restaurants, it was full of well appreciated flavour just like back in Kerala.

The Puri, a classic with asian bread. Just wow! It made me suddenly drop all the other Puri's I've ever eaten in my life to second place.

The only criticism I have is that the butter chicken curry is not authentic enough and too diluted for Western taste; and most importantly it's a bit too little for the price. When it's over £10 I had expected a lot more than the small bowl.

But even despite the over priced curry and the need for some interior maintenance . I will still give you 5/5 star for everything else.

Please know that you have just won yourself a...