Clay’s Kitchen: The Go-To Spot for Indian Food in Reading
For anyone craving authentic Indian food in Reading, there’s one name that stands out: Clay’s Hyderabadi Kitchen. Located in the heart of Caversham, this intimate restaurant has become a favourite for locals and visitors alike, celebrated for its bold regional flavours, inventive dishes, and a dining experience that feels personal, warm, and inviting. Clay’s is more than just a place to eat; it’s a restaurant that tells the stories of Hyderabad through its food.
The Story Behind Clay’s Kitchen
Clay’s Kitchen is the creation of Nandana and Sharat, chef-owners who had long dreamed of opening their own restaurant. In 2017, they leapt, signing a lease for their first premises, and after much dedication, they opened in June 2018, offering authentic Hyderabadi cuisine. Their approach blends unusual spices and ingredients imported from India with the finest local and British suppliers, resulting in dishes that are rich in tradition yet mindful of freshness and quality.
The philosophy at Clay’s is simple: distinctive, passionate, and full of flavour. Every spice mix is unique, and every dish tells a story, whether it’s the opulent food that would have been served to the Royal Nizams or the vibrant street and Andhra cuisine of Hyderabad. From the start, their dedication paid off, with locals quickly embracing the restaurant, making Clay’s a warm, community-focused destination. Many customers describe dining here as “having friends cook for you,” a testament to the personal, family-like atmosphere the chef-owners cultivate.
A Menu That Excites and Surprises
One of the biggest draws of Clay’s Kitchen is its diverse and inventive menu, which highlights the richness of Indian regional cooking. From small bites to main courses, the dishes are designed to engage the senses and offer something new with every visit.
Starters include intriguing choices such as Indian-style hot pickles, cauliflower (v), Phool Makhna with curry leaf masala (v), corn ribs with Clay’s signature spice powder (v), and idli fingers with podi and peanut coconut chutney (v). Seafood lovers can enjoy crispy tilapia with Apollo fish sauce or grilled jumbo king prawns slow-cooked in tokku, while meat dishes range from Doh Khilah pork salad with burnt chilli, ginger and lime to bhuna venison slow-cooked in its own juices. Vegetarian options are equally exciting, including saag paneer kofta in a creamy tomato sauce and patra with tamarind-jaggery glaze and coconut tamarind chilli sauce.
For main courses, signature dishes like Clay’s chicken ghee roast, fiery, earthy, and tangy, lamb shank biryani, and braised beef short ribs with luxurious nalli nihari sauce are standouts that demonstrate the depth of flavour and care that goes into each recipe. For those seeking accompaniments, baghara rice, Baghara-style Hyderabadi pulao rice, and John’s mixed basket of three rotis provide the perfect balance.
Adapting to the Times: Clay’s at Home
When COVID-19 made dining out challenging, Clay’s Kitchen adapted by bringing its dishes to homes nationwide. Our blast-chilled, vacuum-packed curries and mains allow customers to enjoy restaurant-quality meals at home, capturing every ounce of authenticity and flavour. Since August 2020, this nationwide delivery service has garnered excellent reviews and national media attention, with praise from food critics including Jay Rayner, Tom Parker Bowles, and William Sitwell.
Despite the delivery success, the restaurant reopened in July 2021, combining classic dishes with new creations dreamed up during the closure. A carefully curated wine list by consultant Zeren Wilson complements the menu, enhancing the dining experience for those able to visit the Caversham restaurant.
Why Clay’s Kitchen Stands Out
Clay’s Kitchen is more than a restaurant; it’s a culinary experience. The combination of authentic Hyderabadi cuisine, innovative dishes, and warm, personal service makes it the go-to spot for Indian food in Reading. Every plate is a story, every flavour intentional, and every visit feels special. Whether you’re enjoying a meal in the intimate Caversham setting or opting for the comfort of Clay’s at Home, the restaurant consistently delivers on quality, authenticity, and taste.
For those seeking an Indian dining experience that is both authentic and exciting, Clay’s Kitchen & Bar remains unmatched in Reading. From its richly spiced curries to inventive starters and indulgent mains, it’s a destination that celebrates the vibrant, diverse flavours of India, and welcomes every guest like family.
