This Indian restaurant in New Malden is an absolute hidden gem.
From the outside Moksha on Kingston Road looks a bit unassuming, but once inside it quickly became clear this was one of the most memorable meals I have had in a long time.
The food impressed from the very first bite and kept delivering all the way through to dessert. Every dish was carefully prepared and beautifully presented, with generous portions and prices that were much more reasonable than I expected for cooking at this standard.
The staff were warm, attentive and friendly, which gave the whole evening a relaxed and welcoming feel.
We began with the garam samosa chaat, a crushed Punjabi samosa layered with spiced chickpeas, chutneys, sweet yogurt, onions and fresh coriander. The chickpeas were plump and tasty, the yogurt added a refreshing lift, and the flavours came together perfectly.
It was big enough to share, although I was tempted to keep it to myself.
Next up were the karara khumb mushrooms, whole button mushrooms coated in lightly spiced batter, fried until golden and served with mint chutney.
They were crisp, light and surprisingly addictive, something different to the usual starter and very moreish. We also ordered the makhnali seekh kebabs, four minced lamb kebabs brought to the table sizzling on a hot platter, aromatic and packed with spice.
They packed a punch but were not overwhelming, especially when paired with a spoonful of cooling yogurt from the samosa chaat. By the time the mains arrived we were already starting to feel full, but the dishes were too tempting to say no to.
My partner chose the chicken jalfrezi, packed with tender chicken pieces stir fried with peppers, onions and tomatoes in a tangy tomato-based sauce. He cleared the plate without hesitation and I tried some too - bold, flavourful and just the right level of heat.
I ordered the Moksha special lamb shank. The meat fell away from the bone in a rich Rogan Josh-style gravy made with yogurt, onions and warming spices. It was a showstopper of a dish, generous in size, comforting and satisfying.
We added garlic naan, peshwari naan and pilau rice, all freshly made and excellent accompaniments. Together, it was the kind of spread that makes you slow down and savour. It is real comfort food you find yourself craving weeks on.
The drinks list is wide ranging and thoughtful. I started with a French martini, smooth and well balanced, followed by Moksha’s Love, a vodka and lychee cocktail that was fragrant and refreshing.
My partner stuck with a Cobra but there are also mocktails, wines, prosecco and champagne on the list, meaning everyone is catered for. It felt like a menu designed to include all tastes and budgets.
Even though we were full we decided dessert was a must. With ice creams and sorbets starting at £2 and cheesecakes at £5, I could not believe how reasonable the prices were. Who would say no to dessert in this scenario?
I did settle for a light lemon sorbet despite wanting to get stuck in to some of the other impressive traditional desserts but my partner went for a pistachio kulfi which looked incredible.
I paired my dessert with a masala chai, gently spiced and soothing, the perfect way to finish such a generous meal. It rounded off the evening without feeling heavy.
The restaurant itself is simple but pleasant, somewhere that works just as well for a family outing as it does for a birthday or special occasion. The menu is clearly marked with vegetarian, vegan, halal, lactose-free and gluten-free options, showing how much thought has gone into making Moksha accessible to everyone.
Moksha also offers more than just food. They run themed events including Elvis Presley tribute nights, where a three-course meal with entertainment is just £25, and they are active in the local community with celebrations such as Diwali.
It gives the restaurant a welcoming and inclusive feel that goes beyond the menu.
It is a hidden gem in New Malden, serving food that genuinely impressed me from start to finish.
I walked out already planning my next visit and have been craving those dishes ever since.
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