The Kismet - Stoke-on-Trent

We have been going to The Kismet on and off for the last 43 years, it was one of the first restaurants that I took my (then) girlfriend (now my wife of nearly 40 years) to when we first started dating. It is undoubtedly one of the best curry eateries in the city, the food is superb and the staff are all friendly and welcoming, we will continue to dine here for many more years to come.

We often visit, and we are never disappointed. No matter what meal you choose, you can guarantee it will be very good quality. The Naan breads are really good… not too big, not too small, and just the right texture to mop up the extra sauce. Mushroom pilau rice is always on our order as it is so good. The staff are very attentive without being overbearing. The prices are very good too.

I have been coming to this restaurant since I was a child in the mid-80s, but ever since the COVID-19 pandemic, the quality has really gone downhill. I ordered chicken tikka masala, mushroom and cheese naan, and garlic rice. The masala was watery, the chicken was tough and flavorless, and the portion size was very small with only 5 pieces of chicken. The naan seemed like it was cooked in a microwave - doughy and undercooked. The garlic rice portion was also small for the price and very greasy. I have given this place a few chances, but I will not be returning. Additionally, the staff were unwelcoming and gave off a suspicious vibe.

So tonight after a busy day we decided to treat ourselves to a kismet takeaway. It was absolutely terrible. The strangest sliced chicken in a curry I have ever seen. The chips were a soggy mess. So we spent £51 of hard earned money that has gone in the bin. Kismet, Burslem used to be one of the best curry houses in the city. Even my cats wouldn’t touch it and they love chicken. Very disappointed. My best advice…..avoid.

The Kismet is the oldest Indian restaurant in Stoke on Trent and continues to thrive thanks to its amazing food and top-notch service.