I am writing to share a deeply disappointing experience my husband and I had while visiting The Balti Cusine. We came in with anticipation for a pleasant meal, looking forward to trying your renowned mixed grill. As we typically do when dining out, we decided to share a mixed grill platter with naan, along with an extra side of rice, as we didn’t want to waste food. However, the evening took an unfortunate turn due to the behavior and attitude of one of your staff/ owner.
When the server/ owner,Muhammed, came to take our order, he informed us—without prior notice—that your restaurant has a policy requiring each guest to order a separate main course. Although we were surprised, we responded respectfully and placed an additional order of two biryanis, fully understanding that this was not what we had initially planned. Given that we had not been informed about this policy in advance, I politely asked Muhammed if there was somewhere it was documented, such as on the menu or within the restaurant. Rather than addressing my concern, he replied curtly, stating that it is a rule that prevents guests from ordering “only for £5 to £15,” and that sharing food was discouraged due to the cost of the table linen. He mentioned that the restaurant has been running for the past 50 years and surprises me of the values he has gained during this journey.
His tone throughout the conversation was discourteous and dismissive, a stark contrast to what we had expected from a professional hospitality setting. When we tried to express that a more polite approach would have been appreciated, Muhammed abruptly told us that he would not take our order and asked us to leave the restaurant.
This interaction was both shocking and hurtful, and left us feeling that the refusal of service was a clear act of discrimination. We couldn’t help but feel that we were being treated differently due to our ethnicity, which is particularly distressing as it came from someone who himself shares a similar background. As a Muslim myself, I was particularly disheartened by his refusal to serve us with dignity and kindness, as hospitality is a core value in our shared faith.
Our experience at your restaurant felt exclusionary and unwelcoming in a way that I hope is not representative of your values. I urge you to reflect on how this situation could have been handled more professionally and respectfully. No guest should leave a dining experience feeling hurt, unwelcome, or judged based on their appearance.
I’m writing this review as I wish no one else would have to face such a situation ever in their...
Read moreOne’s experience at Balti King was, alas, nothing short of a lamentable ordeal, marked by rank dishonesty, deplorable service, and culinary offerings entirely devoid of merit. Upon entry, one is misled by fictitious pricing—attractive at first glance, yet transformed by a final bill that beggars belief. An inquiry into this discrepancy was met only with an insouciant shrug, as if ethical business practices were altogether foreign to this establishment.
The service, if one could dignify it with such a term, was shockingly inattentive. Our server graced us with an expression of indifference so profound that one might have mistaken him for part of the decor. The cuisine itself was an utter travesty: my chicken tikka masala arrived steeped in a veritable moat of oil, bearing a taste and texture not unlike that of a substandard, reheated takeaway. The naan was equally disappointing—cold, pallid, and with all the charm of damp cardboard.
The ambiance, regrettably, was no more appealing. One dined amid sticky tables and an air of staleness most unbecoming to any establishment professing the title of “King.” To conclude this farce, an automatic “service charge” was imposed—a final affront, rendering one’s parting impression as bitter as the food itself.
In summary, Balti King is a woeful establishment, best left to those unfazed by deceit, dreary environs, and culinary mediocrity. I implore anyone of taste to forgo this...
Read moreFor well over 30 years, my family has enjoyed unforgettable meals and memories at The Balti Cuisine, and it’s all thanks to the incredible owner, Mo. This restaurant has been a beloved part of our lives, offering not just amazing food but also a welcoming atmosphere that feels like home.
Mo's passion for his craft shines in every dish and every detail. He has an undeniable gift for hospitality—greeting guests with warmth, remembering names, and even recalling our favorite dishes over the years. He makes every meal special, and his dedication has created a space where diners feel more like family than customers.
The food at The Balti Cuisine is nothing short of outstanding. Every dish, from the rich, aromatic curries to the perfectly spiced biryanis and freshly baked naan, is a testament to the authentic flavors of Balti cooking. Mo’s commitment to quality and authenticity keeps us coming back, knowing we'll have a delicious, comforting meal every single time.
Beyond the food, what truly sets The Balti Cuisine apart is the warmth and personal touch that Mo and his team bring to the experience. Their hospitality is second to none, making each visit memorable. For anyone looking to enjoy an authentic, heartwarming meal in Cardiff, The Balti Cuisine is an...
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