When I first heard Bo zan was closing I was really sad it was a great independent. Then I heard what was replacing it and it sounded amazing. Little Kochi has been open only for a short while but has made a big impact on the Cardiff food scene. I booked about 2 weeks in advance in order to get a seat. While there several people phoned up wanting tables , but there was limited space , so it is very popular.
As we entered we were the first people to arrive around 6pm and were warmly welcomed. The decor was very different to what had been there previously. It made the room look a lot bigger and very modern. I loved the lights and the chairs were reasonably comfortable so they did not hurt my back.
We started off with some starters to share to line our stomach's. We opted firstly for the trio of chicken, this was beautifully presented. Each bit of chicken was marinated in a different season, not sure what they were . Either way they were not dry and really well seasoned. What I think was beetroot puree was a great addition.
We also opted for a side of poppadoms, this looked very different to what you would normally see. They had a bit more of a bubbly texture to them which gave them an excellent crunch. We were not kept long waiting for our dishes either , that may have been because we were the only ones there first of all. It eventually picked up and by 7pm was full.
We then went on to our mains, we surprisingly had the same curry as it just sounded so good. We both opted for the lamb munnar curry(£13.45). It was creamy made with coconut milk and cashews , but not a heavy curry. The portions sizes were very generous as well.
We also opted for some rice, I was a bit confused at first as it stated palav rice. I asked and it was just another name for pilau rice. This again for the price was great value for money at £2.99 for a big bowl.
Then it got to other other sides, I usually have a naan but there were so many options. I asked and it was all explaiend to me. I opted for an adi porotta(£2.99). This was so flaky and light , but still held together enough to dip in your curry.
My friend Lucy opted for a side of spicy potatoes (£4.85). These were a good size portion , spicy mind it depends how your spice levels are, I would say mildly spiced. A combination of peppers tomato and masala spice. We gobbled up all the food and let it settle for a bit.
We didn't feel rushed at all, it had gotten very busy and other tables were left to be seen too. We waited a good 20 minutes and then had room for some pudding.
The pudding menu was limited on what it had to offer, but this was a good thing so not to be overwhelmed. I opted for the banana with ice cream, well plantain with ice cream. This was a caramelised plantain so crispy on the outside and soft in the middle. I do wish it was a bit bigger as it seems like half a plantain. Lucy opted for the ice cream which had a few generous scoops.
Overall our experience was an enjoyable one the food was tasty, the staff friendly. Price for 2 of us for 3 courses and a drink came to about £30 each which was pretty good value for money. I noticed they also offer takeaway so do have a browse.
Commenti