The Funky Indian Pudsey review: What I thought of this Leeds Indian restaurant that doesn't serve curries

It is one of many early signs your meal will not be in any way similar to what you know as the ‘normal’ Indian cuisine experience.

Having opened amid Covid-19 lockdown uncertainty, The Funky Indian is now part of the furniture in Pudsey.

Fusing cultures in a bold and creative way, it offers a dining experience truly like no other while proudly taking inspiration from Panjab culture.

One of the restaurant’s specialities is their Naan’izza selection. A naan base is smothered with deliciously spiced meats, masala chips and more depending on which version you opt for.

I ordered The Cardinal, which featured chicken tikka, lamb kebab, pepperoni and a blend of mozzarella and cheddar.

My partner opted for The Funky Indian Special Wrap, a naan wrap packed with meats including the sweet and fiery honey chilli chicken.

It might not be what many know as tradition and some would scoff at the prospect of it. They shouldn’t though.

It is food as it can so often not be – fun. The portions are enormous and it is deliciously indulgent, but the fun factor is not covering for any lack of flavour.

The meats are deliciously tender and tastefully spiced, as well as being beautifully fresh. Served piping hot with an ice cold pint of Cobra, it was just a real treat.

Elsewhere on the menu, in the absence of curries, are Stone’izzas. A perfect option for those seeking something not quite as loaded, they are stonebaked naans topped with an array of tasty meats.

There is also an extensive cocktail menu, as well as some delicious-looking desserts. However, considering the size of the main course portions, I cannot imagine the latter being particularly big sellers.

Doubling up as a bar, the space is a vibrant one with eye-catching decor and plenty of space.

The Funky Indian is a versatile operation and also acts an events space. With bright LED lights and plenty of room, it was easy to envisage the restaurant transforming into a full-on bar.

When we visited, we were actually the only ones in the restaurant. I feared it could potentially lead us to be treated as an inconvenience, spoilers of a relaxed evening.

Instead, we were greeted with an incredibly warm welcome from the owner. He served us himself, taking time to chat to us and show genuine interest in what we had to say.

The unique menu was carefully explained to us and we were given a helpful warning about portion size. With a regular price of £22.90, my Naan’izza did not come cheap but the portion size meant I had a big lunch the following day.

As it turned out, we had visited on the restaurant’s first night back open following a two-week break. The Funky Indian may have only just been returning to action but there was no sign of rust.

Our experience was flawless, a genuinely refreshing alternative to what is thought to be the norm when it comes to Indian food.

Factfile

Address: 116 Richardshaw Ln, Stanningley, Pudsey, LS28 6BN

Telephone:

Opening hours: Sunday: 4:30–10pm, Monday and Tuesday: Closed, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday: 5-10pm, Saturday 3-10pm

Website: funkyindian.co.uk

Scores

Food: 8/10

Value: 8/10

Atmosphere: 7/10

Service: 9/10

Total: 8/10