Nottingham has no shortage of places to eat, so when people ask what makes The Cumin one of the city’s best Indian restaurants, the honest answer is: nearly two decades of doing the same thing consistently well.
A family history behind the food
The Cumin was started by the Anand family in 2007, but the story goes back further than that. Brothers Sunny and Shelley brought their catering background to Nottingham in the 1980s before eventually opening the restaurant’s doors on Maid Marian Way — right between the Market Square and Nottingham Castle. That family-run approach hasn’t changed since.
Recognised by critics and diners alike
Over the years, The Cumin has picked up recognition from Best Newcomer through to Best in the Midlands, rated by Pat Chapman’s Cobra Good Curry Guide, and was shortlisted for the Best Curry Awards. It also received a 5-star Metro rating and was ranked among the top 20 Indian restaurants in the UK by OpenTable diners — a reflection of consistent quality rather than a single good year.
What sets the food apart
The menu focuses on authentic North Indian and Punjabi cooking, built on traditional family recipes rather than a generic curry-house formula. Signature dishes include:
- Karahi Gosht and Methi Murg — rich, spice-forward mains
- Biryani, widely regarded as among the best in Nottingham
- Lamb chops and tandoori grills, cooked fresh to order
- A genuinely extensive vegetarian and vegan menu, including favourites like Chole Bhature and Chowk Ki Tikki Tava Aloo
The setting
The restaurant is set over two floors, with interiors inspired by 50s and 60s Bollywood — a golden, red, and grey colour scheme that gives the space real character rather than the usual curry-house décor. A fully stocked bar on both floors means the wine and cocktail list gets as much attention as the food.
A central Nottingham location
Being based on Maid Marian Way puts The Cumin within easy walking distance of the Market Square and Nottingham Castle, with secure parking available nearby — making it a straightforward choice whether you’re a regular or visiting the city for the first time.
Book a table
Ready to find out what the fuss is about? See our menus or call 0115 941 9941 to book a table.
