Spice Merchants — Restaurant in Portsmouth

We recently visited this Indian restaurant and had quite a mixed but overall positive experience. Upon arrival, we didn’t have a reservation as it was a Friday evening and it was 6pm ish , and the initial seating offered was less than ideal—a tiny table in a cramped corner next to a large and noisy group. However, the staff was very understanding when we pointed this out, and they quickly moved us to a lovely window-side table. This small gesture made a big difference and set the tone for the evening.

We ordered three starters. Two of them—Venison, Paneer, and King Prawns—were outstanding. The flavors were rich and perfectly balanced, making for an excellent start to the meal. Unfortunately, the third starter was -which was squid- undercooked. The restaurant handled this issue very gracefully, agreeing with our feedback and removing the item from our bill. Mistakes can happen in any establishment, but their willingness to address the issue without hesitation showed great customer care. For mains, we ordered Lamb Curry and Monkfish Curry, accompanied by Vegetable and Mushroom Rice. Everything was cooked to perfection, with complex and delicious flavors that left us extremely satisfied. The curry textures and seasoning were just right, and the rice paired beautifully with the dishes. Our server was exceptionally kind, knowledgeable, and attentive throughout the evening. They provided excellent recommendations and ensured we had everything we needed with a smile. This level of service truly elevated our dining experience. While there were minor hiccups, the restaurant’s ability to rectify them and make us feel valued as customers left a lasting impression. In any successful establishment, it’s not just about avoiding mistakes—it’s about how they’re handled. We left the restaurant happy and would definitely return...

A Flavorful Journey through Indian Cuisine

I recently had the pleasure of dining at Spice Merchant, and I must say, it was an unforgettable experience. From the moment I stepped in, I was greeted with warm hospitality and an inviting ambiance that set the tone for an exceptional culinary adventure.

The menu at Spice Merchant offers a tantalizing array of authentic Indian dishes, each bursting with vibrant flavors and aromatic spices. From traditional favorites like butter chicken and lamb rogan josh to venison and lobster curries, there's something to delight every palate.

One dish that particularly stood out to me was the royal venison. The tender chunks of venison were perfectly cooked and smothered in a rich sauce that left me craving more with every bite. The garlic naan was also a highlight, perfectly fluffy and baked to perfection.

The presentation of each dish was impeccable, showcasing the chef's attention to detail and commitment to quality. The flavors were well-balanced, with just the right amount of heat and spice to tantalize the taste buds without overwhelming them.

In addition to the mouthwatering food, the service at Spice Merchant was top-notch. The staff was attentive and knowledgeable, providing excellent recommendations and ensuring that every aspect of my dining experience was nothing short of exceptional.

Overall, dining here was a true culinary delight. Whether you're a seasoned fan of Indian cuisine or trying it for the first time, I highly recommend paying a visit to for an unforgettable dining experience that will leave you...

My friend and I ate here off the cuff three weekends ago. The place was jammed which encouraged us in. They squeezed us in with only a 15 minute wait. The place is spotless, the staff excellent, prices reasonable and the food was piping hot. However curry it most certainly wasn't. We had three mains and 2 sides between us. The lamb tikka was dry and unseasoned, the curry was thickened with what tasted like potato starch, had no heat and could only be described as a 'stew'. Both curries tasted virtually the same and even the bombay potatoes were very bland. We were very disappointed 😔 Please accept this criticism constructively because I note you dont seem to have many recent reviews....perhaps the food is why because the atmosphere, service and all round welcome you get here is top notch....so...