For over 30 years, Prashad Indian Restaurant in Drighlington, West Yorkshire, has been serving award-winning vegetarian food. This family-run spot, praised by chefs like Tom Kerridge, recently took on a big challenge. Lifelong vegetarian Sophie brought her meat-loving husband, Danny, to see if a meal without meat could truly satisfy him. The result was a surprising discovery about flavour, texture, and what makes a curry great.
A Yorkshire Gem with a Big Reputation
Prashad isn’t just any restaurant; it’s a destination for food lovers. Run by Bobby Patel and his wife, Head Chef Minal Patel, this eatery has built a name for itself through sheer dedication to quality and flavour. Despite its simple location on a main road, its reputation shines brightly.
The restaurant offers a fine dining experience with a cosy and stylish atmosphere. It has been featured on popular TV shows, further cementing its status as a must-visit location in West Yorkshire. For three decades, Prashad has been a beacon for vegetarian cuisine.
What makes Prashad stand out?
- Family-Run Passion: The heart of the restaurant is the Patel family’s commitment to authentic Indian vegetarian cooking.
- Award-Winning Cuisine: They have received multiple awards for their unique and flavorful dishes.
- Celebrity Endorsements: Features on shows like Hairy Bikers Go Local and Tom Kerridge’s Hidden Hospitality have brought national attention.
The Ultimate Test: A Meat-Lover’s Dinner Date
Sophie Mei Lan Malin has always tried to introduce more plant-based meals into her family’s diet. Her husband, Danny, however, remained a firm believer that a proper meal out, especially on a Sunday, should involve meat. He was skeptical, to say the least.
When Sophie suggested Prashad, Danny’s initial reaction was hesitant. “I’ll do it for you, but it’s Sunday so I’m still having my roast after,” he said. This set the stage for a culinary challenge: could Prashad’s vegetarian dishes finally win him over?
The family, including their mostly vegan daughter Athena, arrived ready to put the restaurant’s famous food to the ultimate test.
What’s on the Menu at Prashad?
The menu at Prashad is a journey through modern Indian vegetarian cuisine. Sophie’s family sampled a variety of dishes that showcase the kitchen’s creativity and skill. Here’s a look at some of the highlights from their meal.
| Starter | Main Course | Dessert |
|---|---|---|
| Deconstructed Samosa Cone | Massala Dosa | Potli with Honeycomb Ice Cream |
| Chaat | Spiced Potato and Onion Curry | |
| Pani Puri | Lentil Broth |
An Explosion of Flavors from the Start
The meal began with a selection of starters that immediately captured everyone’s attention. The poppadoms and pickle tray were a hit with Athena, but the more complex dishes soon stole the show.
First up was the Sanku, a deconstructed samosa cone filled with seasonal vegetables and Garam Masala. This was followed by Chaat, a beloved street food dish known for its delightful mix of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors. Even Danny, the meat-eater, found himself impressed by the fresh and exciting tastes.
The Pani Puri, small crispy balls filled with kachumber and spicy sauces, provided a burst of flavour. While a bit spicy for Danny, the experience was a fun and interactive way to start the meal.
The Main Course that Changed Everything
As the main courses arrived, Danny’s opinion began to shift dramatically. The star of the show was the Massala Dosa, a large, crispy crepe made from rice and lentil batter. It was filled with a delicious mix of spiced potatoes and onions.
He was amazed by how well the vegetables soaked up the spices, creating a depth of flavour he didn’t think was possible without meat. It was a true culinary revelation for him.
By the end of the meal, he exclaimed, “Meat can ruin curries. Flavours like this don’t need meat, sometimes vegetables can be a better texture to absorb all the spices.” This was a massive change from his initial skepticism.
The Final Verdict: A Convert in the Making?
While Danny admitted he couldn’t give up meat completely, his experience at Prashad opened his eyes. He appreciated the variety and how nutrient-rich a vegetarian meal could be without sacrificing taste.
The evening concluded with a beautiful dessert called Potli. It consisted of a light pastry parcel served with creamy honeycomb ice cream, providing a perfectly sweet end to a surprising meal. The experience proved that a well-crafted vegetarian dish can satisfy even the most committed carnivore.
Frequently Asked Questions about Prashad
What kind of food does Prashad restaurant serve?
Prashad serves award-winning vegetarian Indian cuisine. They specialize in fine dining style dishes that are modern, creative, and full of authentic flavours from different regions of India.
Is Prashad a good restaurant for meat-eaters?
Yes, absolutely. As the story shows, the restaurant’s dishes are so rich in flavour and texture that even devoted meat-eaters find them incredibly satisfying and delicious.
Where is Prashad Indian Restaurant located?
The restaurant is located in Drighlington, West Yorkshire. It’s situated on a main road, making it accessible for diners visiting from Leeds, Bradford, and surrounding areas.
What are the specialty dishes at Prashad?
Some of their specialties include handmade amuse-bouche, delicious koftas, and signature dishes like the Massala Dosa and the deconstructed Samosa Cone (Sanku).
Is Prashad a family-run restaurant?
Yes, Prashad is a family affair. It is proudly run by Bobby Patel and his wife, Minal Patel, who is the Head Chef responsible for the incredible menu.
