The Madina Grill (TMG)

Authentic Flavors, Unbeatable Value, Quick Service

So, I recently found myself wandering through the culinary tapestry of TMG – a place not exactly stamped on the pages of mainstream food guides yet steers proudly towards its own niche following. Stationed a sensible stone's throw from Canary Wharf and surprisingly kind on the wallet, this grill has quietly become a darling for halal eaters, burger aficionados, and everyone in between. The lamb tikka dances on your palate, boasting a tenderness that scoffs at the idea of needing additional seasoning, and the signature plating of their sticky wings do more than merely entice with their unique Bangladeshi-style chili sauce. Although the service vibe swings somewhere between charm school casualty and earnest politeness, it does manage to deliver dishes with punctuality, if not polished professionalism.

Now, let’s get cheeky. For any first-timer stepping into this Mediterranean-meets-the-subcontinent haven, the standouts hammer home with gusto. Take, for instance, the herb-rich mutton karahi which had at least half of Dinington admitting one sacrificial forkful would never suffice. Most surprisingly, nothing here seems scripted or ordinary – yes, each meal arrives like a sermon on good food philosophy, though there's occasional tomfoolery like over-processed cheese making an unwelcome guest appearance on someone’s fries. Crazy different yoghurt-and-dhal offerings elevate the biryani experience to delightful heights, turning regular plates into comfort fundraisers. All in all, despite some mismatched flavors and a not-so-enabling seating space shenanigans, TMG reels you right back in with its unapologetically charming menu, proving good things can still lurk in the unexpected corners of our gastronomic world. — Milo Tastemaker