Tempering Indian Restaurant & Bar — Restaurant in Vale of White Horse

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From the moment you step through the doors, you’re embraced by a warmth that isn’t just from the spice-laden air, but from the palpable hospitality that defines this restaurant. The ambient glow of amber lighting, a soft murmur of conversation, and the gentle hum of clinking glasses from the adjoining bar set the stage for an evening that promises indulgence.

The Bar Experience The bar isn’t merely an afterthought—it’s a stage in itself. The mixologist here doesn’t just pour drinks; they tell stories through them. The saffron-infused gin and tonic is a revelation—floral, delicate, and with just enough spice to make it unmistakably Indian. For the more adventurous, the tamarind-whiskey sour is the perfect marriage of tang and warmth, the kind of cocktail that lingers in memory as long as on the palate.

The Food The menu reads like a love letter to India’s culinary geography. We begin with the tandoori lamb chops, marinated in Kashmiri chili and yogurt, charred just enough to form a smoky crust that gives way to tender, blushing meat. The paneer tikka is deceptively simple, yet the balance of earthy cumin and bright coriander proves the kitchen’s mastery of spice layering.

The standout of the evening is the Malabar prawn curry—plump, sweet prawns bathing in a coconut and curry leaf–laced sauce that manages to be both rich and refreshingly aromatic. Served with flaky, butter-brushed parathas, it is nothing short of addictive.

Vegetarians are far from an afterthought here; the dal makhani—slow-simmered overnight—boasts a velvet texture and a depth of flavor that only patience can yield. Every mouthful tastes like a homecoming, even if home is thousands of miles away.

Service & Atmosphere Service is attentive without being intrusive, and staff recommendations prove spot-on—whether guiding you toward a cocktail pairing or helping you navigate the spice spectrum. The background playlist subtly blends modern lounge beats with classical Indian instrumentals, creating an atmosphere where tradition and contemporary flair coexist effortlessly.

The Verdict This restaurant and bar isn’t just a place to eat—it’s a journey through India’s flavors, paired with a bar program that has the confidence to stand beside the food as an equal partner. It’s the rare kind of venue that you leave already planning your return, knowing you’ll bring friends next time just to see their faces when they take that first bite.

Final Score: 9.5/10 – A must-visit for anyone who believes great food and drink should transport you...

Fishtail is truly a gem in Oxford's Botley Area. From the moment you step through the doors, you're transported on an amazing journey of flavors that span the vibrant landscapes of India and Nepal. The staff at Fishtail are incredibly welcoming and knowledgeable, providing excellent recommendations and ensuring that every aspect of the dining experience exceeds expectations. I visited this restaurant with my friend and we were welcomed by this beautiful couple. This husband and wife run the front side of the restaurant and truly they are great people. Always laughing and providing the best service. Hats off to the chef too who along with his team managed to cook such amazing food that quickly even though the restaurant was busy. I actually ended up staying there for a very long time almost until closing time as we had drinks as well there but even then they were so happy to serve us. As someone who appreciates authentic cuisine, I was thrilled to discover Fishtail's extensive menu featuring traditional Nepalese and Indian dishes. We tried the Kathmandu chicken, Gurkha lamb and chicken tikka masala along with butter garlic naans. I must say they serve really good food and so far the best Indian food that I’ve had. The ambiance of the restaurant is warm and inviting, providing the perfect backdrop for a memorable meal with friends or family. I highly recommend Fishtail to anyone seeking an unforgettable dining experience filled with exquisite flavors and warm hospitality. Make sure to add this hidden gem to your list of must-visit restaurants in Oxford—you won't be...

Can confirm this is a proper Indian restaurant serving a wonderful array of authentic Indian cuisine. I took my parents here who are generally very particular about their Indian food being of Indian descent. I noticed the reviews and decided to see whether the high praise was deserved. We came early evening on a Sunday to a quiet restaurant, the interior was simple and clean with no blaring issues. Our drinks orders were immediately taken but all we wanted was tap water which they provided in the form of full glasses and a full carafe.

Our food order consisted of the samosa chaat and paneer tikka shashlik to start, the chicken taka tak, tarka dhaal, okra curry, pulao rice, 2 tandoori rotis and a mixed veg raita. All the food was delicious and the flavours were well balanced and spiced. Especially the chicken taka tak, crucially to note, it wasn't all sauce it was full of vegetables, the sauce was thick and rich without being an oil bath. The tarka dhaal was tempered to perfection and the okra were cooked just right. My only critisism and it;s a minor one was that the roti's were a bit chewy and dry but that was remedied by the saucy dishes to mop up. Cost £70 for the three of us which included 10% service charge. So a bit on the pricy side but for the quality and great taste of the food, we weren't complaining. Definitely a place i'd like to revisit so I can try some...