Fine Indian Cuisine in the Heart of the Swansea Valley
Introduction
Tamarind in Pontardawe has firmly earned its place as one of my favourite local Indian restaurants. Nestled in the beautiful Swansea Valley, this hidden gem offers a menu inspired by the rich culinary traditions of India, Bangladesh, and Pakistan. The restaurant takes its name from the tamarind fruit – also known as the “Indian Date” – a sour-sweet ingredient that features in many classic South Asian dishes.
What truly sets Tamarind apart is their commitment to flavour. Each dish is said to be crafted with its own unique spice blend, handled with an almost alchemical skill. With this in mind, it felt only right to share the experience with my brother and our long-time family friend Delwyn and his family – fellow food lovers with a taste for bold flavours.
The Meal
To Start
We kicked things off with the classic Chutney Tray and crispy Poppadoms, a staple at any Indian restaurant. What made it special was our request for their special lime pickle – tangy, bold, and beautifully balanced. It instantly lifted the appetiser experience.
For my starter, I chose the Tandoori Chicken – tender chicken on the bone, marinated in yogurt and spices, then cooked in the traditional clay oven. It arrived sizzling and aromatic, with a generous portion size (almost enough for a main!). My brother opted for the Vegetable Samosa, a crisp and golden triangular pastry stuffed with spiced vegetables. It was just as satisfying, with a well-seasoned filling and flaky crust.
The Main Event
For my main, I went with the Chicken Biryani – boneless chicken cooked with saffron-flavoured basmati rice and mild spices, served with a side of vegetable curry. While the texture and presentation were good, I found the flavour a little underwhelming and wished I had either requested the addition of garlic or gone for something more daring.
My brother’s dish, the Chicken Cafreal, was the standout of the evening – a bold and spicy dish combining coconut cream, lemon juice, and chilli. Bursting with flavour, it was a perfect example of the complexity Tamarind is capable of delivering. Our friends also enjoyed their dishes and passed samples around – the sharing only added to the experience.
However, we all agreed that the Chicken Tikka Masala was too sweet for our liking, bordering on dessert-like. Preferences vary, but it didn’t quite hit the right balance for us.
Sides
I chose a Fresh Garlic Naan, and it did not disappoint – warm, soft, and garlicky with just the right touch of char. It complemented the meal beautifully.
Final Thoughts
Tamarind offers a wide and intriguing menu that invites repeat visits. While not every dish hit the mark for me personally, the warm hospitality, attention to spice, and occasional bursts of brilliance make it a solid local favourite.
I’ll definitely be returning – and next time, I’ll be choosing something with a bit more heat and complexity.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4 out of 5)
A strong four-star dining experience that still leaves room to explore.
Website: Tamarind Pontardawe
Hygiene Rating: View Food Standards Agency Rating
Address: 65 Herbert Street, Pontardawe SA8 4ED, Wales