Spice Empire — Restaurant in Sunderland

We visit Spice Empire on a regular basis and unfortunately on this visit we were extremely disappointed in the attitude of the staff, service was poor and the quality of the food. One of the party as a nut allergy and mentioned this to the member of staff taking our order. No comment was made and he give the impression that he was not at all concerned or interested. Before our starters arrived four of the party had poppadoms after finishing the used side plates were not cleared away when we received our starters. After finishing our main meal it was fifteen minutes before we were able to order five coffees and desserts. A member of staff came to inform us that the table was booked and that they expect diners to leave the table after an hour and half. This rule has never been brought to our attention on previous visits or whilst making a booking. We left the restuarant fifteen minutes later after speaking to a member of staff to raise our dissatisfaction and to pay the bill. During this time there was no one sitting in the bar area waiting for a table. Due to our experience tonight I doubt we will be returning...

We attended spice empire on 2nd Dec 2021, we were rather late attending as we had been to the theatre, no reservation no problem. Firstly I was struck by how pretty the restaurant is and how they made an effort to make people feel welcome. Secondly service was amazing, The young lady who served us had the right amount of sass and judged is as quirky patrons, joining in with our banter. The wine was delicious and we were impressed at the speed of the turn around for the starter. One of the owners checked on us and stayed for a moment to chat which was lovely, even helping with pronunciation of the dish I had ordered. I was absolutely delighted with the butter chicken and can say it is one of if not the best I've tasted. A Bailey's coffee to finish and we were done. What came across to us is the care, not only for the atmosphere, the food, the choice of wine but also for their staff, I heard the owner ask if they wer ok, made sure they ate and even took them home. Would I go again, certainly, would I...

I can not speak highly enough of the food , service and value on my last visit. I had booked a couple of weeks earlier to take my family and friends for a treat. We were all highly satisfied. First the atmosphere, exactly what you would want from an Indian restaurant. No body rushing you but you were made to feel important. We all ordered drinks as well which came promptly, onto our seconds when food arrived. In our group of 7 there were obviously a selection of dishes ordered. Everyone was complimentary of theirs, my personal choice chicken tikka madras. Compliments to the chefs and staff. Not cheap nor expensive, I think you get what you pay for and it was in a word outstanding. I can not wait to return , please try here if your a curry fan Enjoy everyone, and thanks again to everyone at spice...