Such wonderful food and service! I've enjoyed takeout from Chennai before, but dining-in is a fantastic experience. The decor is very bright and cosy, and the service is impeccable. Everyone who served and spoke to us was friendly and helpful, with prompt assistance offered- always. Every employee exemplifies Asian hospitality to the highest degree. The food, is of course, fantastic. Their garamasala sauce is impossibly rich, layered and perfectly sweet/spicy- I wish I could eat it every day. They clearly use very fine ingredients and cook with a breadth of skill and knowledge. My dining compadre humbly suggests you add meat samosas, or meat samosa chat to the menu. I'd love to see your take on it- but trust that the menu is already perfect. I hope you continue to offer such excellent service and food. Many thanks for a wonderful evening.
Overview
If you're in the mood for delicious Indian cuisine in Basingstoke, look no further than Chennai Express, a vibrant diner located at 19 Wote St, Basingstoke RG21 7NE, United Kingdom. This hidden gem offers an authentic taste of South India, bringing the rich flavors and bold spices right to your plate. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, perfect for a casual meal with friends or a relaxed family dinner.
The menu at Chennai Express is a delightful mix of traditional dishes and modern twists on classic favorites. One of the standout offerings is their chicken tikka masala, which strikes the perfect balance between creamy and spicy, making it a customer favorite. If you're after something a bit more adventurous, their dosa, a crispy and savory pancake filled with spiced potatoes, is a must-try. Served with coconut chutney and sambar, it’s a great option for those new to South Indian cuisine. And for vegetarians, the paneer butter masala provides a rich, flavorful experience that rivals any meat dish.
The portions at Chennai Express are generous, ensuring that you’ll leave satisfied no matter what you order. Plus, the prices are surprisingly affordable for the quality of food you’re getting. Whether you're grabbing a quick bite during your lunch break or enjoying a leisurely dinner, the restaurant offers great value without compromising on taste.
What sets Chennai Express apart is its commitment to authenticity. The spices used in each dish are freshly ground, ensuring every bite bursts with flavor. Their chef, originally from Chennai, brings his expertise to every plate, having mastered traditional cooking techniques passed down through generations. This attention to detail makes each dish not only delicious but also a true representation of South Indian culinary traditions.
In terms of ambiance, the restaurant strikes a perfect balance between cozy and modern. With warm lighting and rustic wooden furniture, it feels inviting without being overly formal. The staff are friendly and knowledgeable, always ready to help with recommendations or explain any dish you're curious about. On top of that, they take the time to ensure your dining experience is nothing short of excellent, which adds to the overall charm of the place.
For dessert, you can’t go wrong with their gulab jamun. These soft, sweet dough balls soaked in syrup offer a perfect end to your meal. If you're in the mood for something lighter, the mango lassi is a refreshing, creamy drink that pairs well with spicy dishes. It's clear that the folks behind Chennai Express care about providing not just a meal, but a full experience that highlights the best of Indian cuisine.
What’s more, the diner’s location in Basingstoke makes it easily accessible for both locals and visitors. Whether you're in town for business or pleasure, popping by for a meal at Chennai Express is well worth it. The convenience of parking nearby and the laid-back vibe of the area only adds to the appeal. In addition, the restaurant often offers takeout and delivery services, so you can enjoy your favorite dishes from the comfort of your home.
Customer reviews speak highly of both the food and service. Many patrons mention the consistently high quality of the dishes, noting that the flavors are always on point. One reviewer raved about the biryani, saying it was "perfectly spiced and cooked to perfection." Others have commented on the cozy atmosphere, making it a great spot for a casual night out. It’s clear that the dedication to excellent food and service has earned Chennai Express a loyal following.
Whether you're a long-time fan of Indian food or just beginning to explore South Indian flavors, Chennai Express offers a unique and satisfying dining experience that will leave you craving more. With its delicious menu, expert chefs, and welcoming ambiance, it’s no wonder this restaurant has become a local favorite in Basingstoke.
Good to know
Service options
✓ No-contact delivery ✓ Delivery ✓ Takeaway ✓ Dine-inHighlights
✓ Great dessertPopular for
✓ Lunch ✓ Dinner ✓ Solo diningAccessibility
✓ Wheelchair-accessible entrance ✓ Wheelchair-accessible seatingOfferings
✓ Alcohol ✓ Beer ✓ Coffee ✓ Halal food ✓ Healthy options ✓ Late-night food ✓ Quick bite ✓ Small plates ✓ Spirits ✓ Vegan options ✓ Vegetarian options ✓ WineDining options
✓ Brunch ✓ Lunch ✓ Dinner ✓ Catering ✓ Dessert ✓ Seating ✓ Table serviceAmenities
✓ Bar on site ✓ ToiletAtmosphere
✓ Casual ✓ Cosy ✓ TrendyCrowd
✓ Family friendly ✓ Groups ✓ TouristsPlanning
✓ Dinner reservations recommended ✓ Accepts reservationsPayments
✓ Credit cards ✓ Debit cards ✓ NFC mobile payments ✓ Credit cardsChildren
✓ Good for kids ✓ High chairs ✓ Kids' menuParking
✓ Paid parking lot ✓ Paid street parking ✓ ParkingPhotos
Location
Reviews
The restaurant is such a cozy feel, with authentic designs and spectacular food, which aligns with everyone’s taste buds. It genuinely feels like you are at a restaurant in India, such a warm feeling. Our server Priyanka was lovely and helpful during our dine in. The experience overall was lovely and we left the restaurant VERY full And happy!!!
Been here a couple of times, the food was great both times. Srinu is appropriately attentive, would highly recommend!
I recently visited this Indian restaurant and had a wonderful time. The food was flavourful, authentic, and beautifully presented—every dish was perfectly spiced and incredibly satisfying. A special shout-out to Priyanka, who truly elevated the experience. She was warm, attentive, and very knowledgeable about the menu. Her recommendations for alcohol pairings were spot-on. She suggested a smooth Indian whisky that matched wonderfully with the food. Her suggestions showed real expertise and made our meal even more enjoyable. Overall, fantastic food, great atmosphere, and exceptional service. Highly recommended!
We got served by Priyanka, was so welcoming and was a nice environment. Food was good too and didn’t have to wait long. Overall rlly gd
Booked a table for a multi-generational birthday supper. Fantastic service from all the gentlemen present and the food was wonderful - thank you for my daughter's birthday treat! I used to patronise the "Curry Club" on the Strand for their fine dosa but they are long gone. So glad to have a Hampshire based restaurant serving Indian delicacies, not the usual curry house fare. Recommended without hesitation!
Lovely food and ash was a great waiter very eager with the bill
Tried Mango Lassi, Dosa, Chicken 65, and Masala Chai — and every bite felt like home. The lassi brought back childhood memories, the dosa was crispy and comforting, Chicken 65 had the perfect spice, and the chai? Just soul-soothing. The vibe was peaceful with soft music, and Anup’s service made the experience even better. Highly recommended for anyone craving authentic Indian flavors and genuine hospitality.