Karnaphuli - Hackney

I visited this restaurant many years ago and had a pleasant experience. The service was excellent, but I was slightly disappointed with the food this time. I started with chicken samosas, which were not in the usual filo pastry and came with tomato ketchup on the side, which was unexpected. I then had the chef's special, which was not bad, but it didn't impress me either. It was a bit bland. My partner also tried one of the chef's specials, which had a good coconut flavor, but that was about it. Overall, if you are looking for a standard Indian meal, you will be satisfied, but it doesn't stand out as anything special.

The food at this restaurant has been consistently good for many years. We have been loyal customers for decades. The staff is always friendly and the service is excellent.

The food at the restaurant was all incredibly tasty and made with fresh ingredients. The Bombay Duck and Persha..(something) Lamb were particularly outstanding, as they were incredibly tender.

My husband and I booked a table for 7pm,for dinner on Saturday 7 Jan. we were very excited ,hadn’t been to the restaurant for 30 years,used to be our regular go to years ago in our 20s. We were seated on arrival,and basically forgotten about.Waiter brought only one menu,when asked for another one didn’t look to happy. No water brought to table despite trying to get the waiters attention ,no one attempted to make us feel welcome.We got up to leave after 30 mins ,as no one even notice us,when I told a staff member it was a disappointing experience, he shrugged his shoulders and didn’t even apologise. Never mind ,must have been fate,we left and went to Yum Yums around the corner who know how to make a customer feel welcome and service was excellent. What a shame our experience at karnapuli was a big disappointment,tip to manager,be around when your restaurant is busy. Tip to customers,if your looking for poor to mediocre service you’ll be fine,I can’t comment on the food as we didn’t get to try it, won’t be back.

Making our way up Church St on Saturday evening and we made the inspired decision to enquire about availability at this restaurant. The friendly reception is wonderfully matched by the overall cosy ambience of the dining area, tables close but not too close and the hum of conversation from our fellow diners. Time did not allow for us to give a full examination of the menu offerings so we limited ourselves to three mains, all receiving enthusiastic thumbs up. We most definitely be back for more.