I went to Southampton vegan Indian restaurant Padharo: it was stunning

Padharo in East Street caters specifically for vegetarians and vegans, using plant-based ingredients for its authentic Indian recipes.

When I entered the restaurant, which opened in August, I was instantly impressed by Padharo’s stunning choice of décor.

The interior of Padharo made for a great setting to enjoy a meal (Image: Ross Marshall)

The restaurant feels spacious and modern with comfortable seats and a stylish interior.

I particularly liked the use of fake plant baskets hung from the ceiling and spread across the venue – it took me away from the concrete of Southampton.

Padharo has a vast menu of nibbles and starters but, of course, no curry can be kicked off without papadums and chutney.

I also decided to be a little more adventurous and try some Chakna – a popular Indian bar snack of spicey nuts that, in my humble opinion, goes hand in hand with an ice-cold pint of larger.

The selection of chakna, papadums and onion bhaji (Image: Ross Marshall)

Despite ordering two starters, I could not pass up the opportunity to try some onion bhajis.

It's common for them to be dripping in grease.

However, Padharo’s were light and crispy – a welcome change.

What I also appreciated was the fact staff were on hand to answer any questions, which is particularly helpful when you are used to eating meat curries.

Moving on to the main course, I tried the chilli chick’n, mushroom kadai and kaju paneer, all of which were delicious.

The chilli chick’n, mushroom Kadi and kaju paneer, rice and naan bread (Image: Ross Marshall)

I was blown away by the plant-based ‘chick’n’ that is uncanny to the normal meat. I was also warned by staff that it was the hottest dish on the menu – a challenge I willingly took on.

The crunchy nuts in the kaju paneer also added a unique touch to the dish that I had not experienced before – a very tasty dish.

The vegan chick'n tastes and looks just like the real meat (Image: Ross Marshall)

The vegetables in each curry also helped to soak up some of the amazing spices and flavours.

All in all it was a great dining experience which I would recommend to meat and non-meat eaters alike.