Waterlily Restaurant & Lounge

Head down Nottingham Road and you'll find Waterlily doing the kind of Indian food that makes you wonder why you ever bothered with the mediocre stuff. It's not trying to be fancy or Instagram-bait; this place just gets the fundamentals right. The kitchen clearly respects the spices and techniques, whether you're ordering a straightforward tikka or something more adventurous. You'll notice locals packing the tables most nights, which tells you everything about the reputation here. Service is genuinely attentive without being fussy, and the atmosphere strikes that sweet spot between relaxed and put-together.