Three generations of Bengali heritage bring authentic flavours to life at this Sunderland restaurant

For three generations the Islam family has inspired and delighted diners at their small chain of restaurants in North East, earning themselves a huge and loyal following.

But it’s their latest venture, The Bengal Table, which is closest to their roots, and the truly authentic flavours of their homeland.

Syed Islam, who opened the restaurant in November, says: “This is all about authenticity. This is no copy of any other restaurant, it’s entirely unique to us.

Flavours of home

Everyone will have their favourite, but the secret to The Bengali Table is the blend. Your taste-buds will sizzle to the peppery Nigella with hints of onion and oregano, the warm turmeric unique to West Bengali, aromatic, maple-like Fenugreek or the warm and citrusy ginger, so fresh and bursting with flavour.

Chef has created a menu as delightful to the palate as it is to the eye, as his celebration of culinary passion has created a menu described by diners as “an excellent heritage menu”.

Those heritage dishes, which Syed says are ‘a true taste of home’, include things like:

· DadasTikka Hariali, a mild dish with cream, chillies, spinach, crushed garlic and a hint of sugar to pull out the sweetness of the dish.

· India’s favourite dish, Karrahi, served with huge chunks of green pepper, onion and bay leaf in a spicy, dry dish.

· A Goan madras curry, with chicken or prawns, flavoured with lemon juice, aromatic spices, chili and coconut.

Of course, the restaurant menu is also packed with classic dishes too, like tandoori chicken, paneer, masala, bhoona, jalfrezi and biryani.

Good value, always

Syed said: “We’ve created somewhere really special, like a boujee high end London restaurant, but without those prices.

“Add to that our early-bird dining offer from 5-7pm and our Saturday and Sunday lunchtime menu, and it’s easy to see why people love it.”

The reviews on Google tell it all

Lauren Branton wrote: “A true hidden gem in Castletown. The restaurant is absolutely beautiful inside. You are greeted when you walk in the door and nothing is too much to ask.”

Ryan M posted: “From the beginning to the end a truly fantastic experience. Food and drinks were served in a timely manner and nice and hot upon arrival. The food itself is bursting with authentic flavours. The staff are friendly and happy. I’ve lived close for a while and didn’t know this was here. A true hidden gem. Would 100% recommend everybody to try here!”

Book a table or order takeaway

The restaurant is open every day except Tuesdays and has a license for those looking to indulge. Bringing the car? Park for free in the on site car park. Or, order for delivery straight to your home, to have the Islam family’s heritage flavours become a firm favourite from their kitchen to yours.

Find out more and book here.