Experience Traditional Curry in Reading at Clay’s Kitchen
For lovers of authentic Indian cuisine, Clay’s Hyderabadi Kitchen in Caversham, Reading, is a culinary destination not to be missed. Founded by chef-owners Nandana and Sharat, Clay’s has become renowned for delivering traditional curry and regional Indian dishes with a modern touch, creating an experience that is both comforting and unforgettable.
A Dream Realised
Nandana and Sharat’s journey began with a shared dream: to own a restaurant that celebrated the rich flavours of Hyderabad and other regional cuisines from India. In 2017, they signed the lease for their first premises, and in June 2018, Clay’s Kitchen opened its doors. Their goal was simple yet ambitious: to offer authentic Hyderabadi food using spices and unique ingredients sourced from India while complementing them with the finest local and British suppliers.
From the outset, the restaurant stood out for its distinctive approach. Every spice mix is tailored to each recipe, ensuring that each dish tells a story, whether it’s the opulent food once served to the Royal Nizams or the bold, flavourful street food of Andhra Pradesh. This attention to detail and passion for authenticity have earned Clay’s widespread acclaim, with local awards and a loyal customer base who often describe dining there as “having friends cook for you.” Many guests have become like family, returning time and again for the warmth, hospitality, and unforgettable flavours.
Traditional Curry with a Modern Twist
Clay’s Kitchen is perhaps best known for its curries, each crafted to highlight the depth and complexity of Indian regional cuisine. The menu ranges from rich, fiery dishes to mild, nuanced curries that balance spices perfectly. Signature offerings include Clay’s chicken ghee roast, known for its fiery, earthy, and tangy notes, and saag paneer kofta, a creamy vegetarian curry in a tomato sauce. For those seeking hearty, slow-cooked meats, the bhuna venison and braised beef short ribs in nalli nihari sauce are standouts, each slow-cooked to perfection.
Seafood options such as crispy tilapia with Apollo fish sauce or grilled jumbo king prawns slow-cooked in tokku add a further layer of depth and variety, while traditional biryanis like the lamb shank biryani and baghara rice offer fragrant, flavourful accompaniments to any meal. The menu also includes smaller plates and snacks, onion bloom pakora, aloo tikki chat, and idli fingers with podi and peanut coconut chutney, perfect for sharing and sampling a variety of flavours.
Clay’s dedication to regional authenticity extends even to its vegetarian dishes, with highlights such as patra with tamarind-jaggery glaze and coconut tamarind chilli sauce and smoked tamarind dal, which can be requested vegan. Side dishes like John’s mixed basket of three rotis round out the experience, making each meal at Clay’s a comprehensive journey through Indian flavours.
Adapting to Modern Dining Needs
The COVID-19 pandemic presented challenges for many restaurants, including Clay’s, which is an intimate space with no outdoor seating. Undeterred, Nandana and Sharat launched Clay’s at Home, delivering blast-chilled, vacuum-packed curries and meals nationwide. Every dish retains the same flavour, texture, and authenticity as the restaurant’s dine-in offerings, allowing customers to enjoy traditional curry in the comfort of their own homes. This service has been widely praised and has expanded Clay’s reach well beyond Reading, earning recognition from national food critics including Jay Rayner, Tom Parker Bowles, and William Sitwell.
After reopening in July 2021, Clay’s combined classic favourites with new creations, alongside a carefully curated wine list designed by consultant Zeren Wilson. This ensures that whether you dine in or enjoy a meal at home, the Clay’s experience remains exceptional.
Why Clay’s Kitchen is a Must-Visit
What makes Clay’s Kitchen so special is its ability to combine authentic Indian flavours, expert technique, and warm hospitality. Every dish, from fiery curries to delicate small plates, is a celebration of Hyderabad’s culinary traditions. Whether you are a seasoned fan of Indian cuisine or trying traditional curry for the first time, Clay’s provides an immersive and memorable dining experience in Reading.
With its inviting atmosphere, passionate chef-owners, and menu that showcases both tradition and innovation, Clay’s Kitchen has rightly earned its reputation as the go-to spot for Indian food in Reading. From the moment you step inside or open a Clay’s at Home package, it’s clear that this is more than just a meal, it’s a journey through the rich flavours and stories of India.
