Discover Authentic Indian Cuisine at Simla: A Newcastle Gem

At Unique Magazines, we believe that great food isn’t just about satisfying hunger—it’s about creating unforgettable experiences and forging connections with the places and people around us.

In this special series, each member of our team takes you on a culinary journey through their own personal favourites. From cozy cafes to hidden gems, we’re here to introduce you to the best dining destinations our region has to offer.

Today, we’re thrilled to have Andrea, share her latest pick: Simla. So sit back, relax, and let us be your guides as we explore the vibrant culinary landscape of the North East together. Bon appétit!

Nestled on The Side, a charming medieval street near the Quayside in Newcastle, lies Simla, a family-owned restaurant that has been serving up authentic Indian cuisine since 1981. Often heralded as a hidden gem by locals in the know, Simla boasts a warm and inviting ambiance that keeps patrons coming back time and time again.

From the moment you step through the doors, you’re greeted with a cozy atmosphere enhanced by low warm lighting and scattered cushions, inviting you to settle in and make yourself at home. What sets Simla apart is its commitment to modernity and contemporary flair while still staying true to its roots.

One of the standout features of Simla is its dedication to using locally sourced ingredients, ensuring that each dish is fresh and bursting with flavour. The menu itself pays homage to the rich culinary heritage of the Indian subcontinent, offering a selection of historically significant dishes that are sure to tantalise your taste buds.

During my recent visit to Simla, I had the pleasure of indulging in some of their signature dishes. For starters, the Crispy Pakora – onion and spinach fritters with mixed spices – were a delightful combination of crunchy and tasty, while the Lamb Gilafi Sheekh Kebab simply melted in the mouth, bursting with spiced flavour.

For mains, we opted for the classic Chicken Tikka Masala, creamy and delicious as always, along with the Chicken Korma, which was mild, creamy, and wonderfully sweet. A side dish of saffron pulao rice perfectly complemented the rich and flavourful curries.

No Indian meal would be complete without a selection of naan bread, and Simla certainly didn’t disappoint. The garlic naan and peshwari naan were soft, fluffy, and utterly moreish, adding the perfect finishing touch to our dining experience.

Throughout our meal, the service at Simla was impeccable, with attentive staff who made us feel right at home. It was truly a night to remember, leaving us feeling happy, full, and thoroughly satisfied.

If you’re looking for an extra special Indian dining experience in Newcastle, I can’t recommend Simla highly enough. Whether you’re a seasoned curry connoisseur or new to the world of Indian cuisine, a visit to Simla is sure to be a culinary adventure you won’t soon forget.

And for more culinary inspiration, be sure to check out our selection of food magazines. Whether you’re passionate about cooking, dining out, or simply exploring new flavors, our curated collection has something for everyone.

If you would like to know about me and my role at Unique, and the places I like to visit click here.