Pathiri Restaurant Greenwich

Authentic South Indian Flavors in London

Nestled in the vibrant albeit somewhat cluttered streets of Greenwich, this Kerala culinary enclave offers an intriguing journey for anyone with an adventurous palate and a love for South Indian flavors. Upon my entrance, the promises of spicy-rich delicacies were matched by a warmly hospitable welcome, characteristic of its genial staff led by Alfina, who is quickly becoming recognized as the heart and soul of the establishment. The Onam sadya, that special traditional feast delivered generously across banana leaves, proved an exceptional treat worth marking one’s calendar for. It sang with freshness and spice, enveloping each bite in vibrant authenticity that oddly convinces your city-bitten senses you might - just perhaps - have stumbled into India itself.

While the restaurant's inner sanctum takes 'unpretentious' to almost ascetic levels with its bare-bone décor, considered less a flaw and more a beckoning nudge to concentrate on the food set before you. I opted for the paneer dosa and moru curry; both were thoughtfully prepared, balancing heat with a playful interplay of textures—crisp meeting creamy with spice running delightfully rampant. The doughy joys of the Kerala Parotta and the beguiling Pepper Chicken curry ensured that I left sated yet craving the inevitable return. It is true: provenance warns against seeking standard British-curry-house classics here. This bastion is punctuated by scents and sounds of an authentic edible sojourn. Savvy diners: heed the siren call of those dosas, embrace the average ambiance and BYOB lark – its essence triumphantly soulful. — Penelope Savory