Nestled in the heart of Ilford, East London, Asiatique at 501 High Rd, IG1 1TZ, brings a modern, vibrant twist to classic South Asian dining. Whether you're a local or just passing through, this spot has all the right reasons to pull you in-mouthwatering food, a laid-back atmosphere, and service that strikes the right balance between friendly and professional.
The moment you step in, you’re greeted with a warm ambiance, contemporary décor, and if you’re lucky, the soulful tunes from live music performances on selected evenings. It’s a place that knows how to blend energy and comfort, making it ideal for anything from solo lunches to late-night bites with friends.
Now, let’s talk food-because that’s where Asiatique really shines. Their Butter Chicken is a creamy, rich indulgence that never disappoints, while the Chilli Chicken packs just the right amount of heat and tang. If you're leaning vegetarian, don’t sleep on the Chilli Paneer-a crowd favorite that delivers bold flavors without trying too hard.
Love Indian street food? Dishes like Bhel Puri, Chaat, and Mogo Chips bring that chaotic, crunchy, sweet-sour-spicy balance to the table. For something more hearty, the Lamb Karahi and Chicken Biryani Rice bring in the depth and spice you’d expect from proper North Indian-style cooking. If grilled meats are more your style, the Lamb Chops Grill and Hariali Chicken Tikka will definitely hit the spot.
Looking to share? The Mix Platter is a great way to sample a bit of everything. Perfect for indecisive diners or for groups who just want to dig in together. And don’t forget the carbs-because honestly, what’s a curry without a side of fluffy Garlic Naan or Onion Kulcha?
It’s worth noting that Asiatique serves halal food, so it’s inclusive for a wider audience. Vegan and vegetarian options are also well-represented, making it a versatile pick for mixed-diet groups. Add to that their healthy options and small plates, and you’ve got a place that covers just about every kind of craving.
Drinks-wise, it’s not just your average soda list. You’ll find everything from Franklin & Sons Ginger Beer to colorful mocktails, craft cocktails, and even a solid selection of wines, beers, and spirits. There's also free water refills, which is a small touch but one that adds up in customer satisfaction.
Accessibility is another area where Asiatique gets full marks. With a wheelchair-accessible entrance, car park, toilet, and seating, the space is thoughtfully designed to welcome everyone comfortably. Whether you’re dining in, grabbing a takeaway, or ordering from the comfort of your home, they’ve got all the service options covered-dine-in, takeaway, delivery, kerbside pickup, and no-contact delivery.
Tea lovers will also appreciate their great tea selection, perfect for those who want a more traditional drink to complement their meal. And if you’ve got a sweet tooth, their dessert game is strong-worth sticking around for after the main course.
Asiatique isn’t just popular for dinner; it’s also a go-to lunch spot thanks to its fast service and lunch-friendly portions. Good for solo dining, too-it’s casual enough to sit down alone with your food and enjoy without feeling awkward.
With a menu as extensive as this and a vibe that’s both relaxed and lively, Asiatique manages to stand out in Ilford’s crowded dining scene. It’s a place that invites you to stay a while, order that extra drink, and maybe try something new off the menu that you hadn’t considered before.