Red Elephant Indian Restaurant - Athens

Hailing from the UK, I took for granted the eclectic mix of culinary delights there.  I mean, in my father’s small West Country town of Tiverton, there are at least four Indian restuarants, a Thai restaurant and any any number of Chinese restaurants.  Surprisingly, I didn’t find that much choice in Athens – OK, there are the Indian restaurants near Thissio Metro station in the touristy area, but then I came across the Red Elephant near my local neighbourhood.

Cuisine: Indian

Address: 42 Larisis St, Panormou (on the blue line of the Metro)

Opening hours: Mon-Fri 6pm-1am, Sat-Sun 2:30pm-1am. Kitchen closes at 00:00

Seats: 35

Dress Code: Smart-casual

Average Price: €12 – €15 (excluding drinks)

Payment Options: Cash

Take-away: Available (collection only)

Nearest Tube: Panormou

For reservations please call: 2106924421. Due to space limitations, they only accept reservations up to 4 people.

I’ve been several times now – both as a take away and as a sit down meal with friends.  The place is pretty small, but interestingly it doesn’t feel crowded.  And you know, sometimes, in a small enclosed space the smell of cooking can permeate everything: your clothes, hair, etc…no, not here.

The menu is vast: Curries (obviously) with your choice of strength of spiciness.  Choose from chicken, lamb, beef or prawn. Samosas, onion bhaji’s and my favourite, Korma (yes yes, I know: my curry choices are not very exciting).  Plus a choice of rices such as mushroom basmati or vegetable pulao.