If you ever find yourself wandering around 10 Station Road in Taunton, there’s one place you absolutely shouldn’t skip-Mattancherry Taunton. It’s not just another Indian restaurant. It’s where South Indian tradition dances with modern culinary creativity. From the moment you step inside, there’s an aroma that hits you-not overwhelming, but intriguing. Smoky tandoori, tangy chutneys, and something unmistakably coastal. That’s Mattancherry for you.
The name might sound like a tongue-twister, but once you've tasted what’s coming out of their kitchen, you’ll remember it forever. The vibe here is casual but classy, perfect for anything from solo lunches to group dinners. And accessibility? No worries-there’s a wheelchair-accessible entrance and seating, though the toilet isn’t wheelchair-friendly, so do plan ahead if needed.
Now, let’s talk food. And not just generic curry-house food-we’re talking Bombay Chaat that crackles with spice and crunch, Chicken Lollipop that's crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and Kizhi Parotta, a Kerala-style delicacy that feels like a warm hug wrapped in banana leaves. If you're into dosa, theirs is golden, thin, and comes with coconut chutney that deserves its own fanbase. Prefer seafood? The Fish Thali is a coastal feast on a platter-spiced right, not shy on flavor, and served with love.
But it’s not just about South Indian classics here. They go all out with Tandoori Pineapple, which is honestly a game changer. It hits that sweet-savory balance with a hint of smokiness that’s hard to forget. And the Spice Crusted Lamb Tikka? Let’s just say it’s a must-try for anyone who wants their meat tender with just the right amount of fire.
Want something smaller to start with? The Punjabi Samosa hits the spot, flaky and well-spiced, while the Spring Rolls offer a veggie-friendly crunch. The Garlic Naan is fluffy, slightly charred, and great for scooping up anything with gravy-especially their vibrant curries or the thick, slow-cooked Tomato Soup with Indian spices.
Drinks-wise, the menu’s just as tempting. From Gulab Jamun to end on a sweet note to a surprisingly varied selection of gin, cocktails, spirits, and even organic wines, they’ve got something for every kind of diner. The beer list is impressive for a restaurant of this style-definitely not your average Indian lager situation. They also serve coffee, mocktails, and refreshing free water refills-a small touch, but appreciated when the spices hit.
For vegetarians and vegans, you won’t be stuck choosing between just two options. The team at Mattancherry makes sure there’s a solid selection of plant-based dishes, and the flavors aren’t watered down. They celebrate vegetables rather than hide them.
Whether you’re in for a quick takeaway, no-contact delivery, or sitting down for a long dinner with friends, Mattancherry Taunton adapts to the moment. It’s especially popular for both lunch and dinner, and solo diners won’t feel out of place either-it has that welcoming energy that doesn’t require a special occasion to enjoy.
It’s rare to find a spot that blends authenticity with experimentation this well. From street-food-style starters to full-fledged coastal thalis, from sizzling kebabs to innovative vegetarian mains, Mattancherry brings a full experience. Not just a meal, but a flavorful journey through the diverse regions of India-without leaving Taunton.
And hey, if you need a break from the usual, skip the same old chicken tikka masala and dive into something bold, fun, and deliciously different. You’ll thank yourself later.