Itihaas, is an award-winning Indian and Bangladeshi restaurant nestled in the heart of Dalkeith, near Edinburgh. Their name, means ‘history’ in Hindi, reflecting their commitment to traditional flavours while embracing modern culinary techniques.

Their menu is a carefully curated symphony of flavours, showcasing the best of Indian and Bangladeshi cuisine. From aromatic biryanis to succulent kebabs, each dish is a testament to the rich culinary heritage of these regions. They pride themselves on using the freshest ingredients, ensuring every meal is not only flavourful but also nourishing.

Indian and Bangladeshi cuisines are a delightful tapestry of flavours, spices, and culinary traditions. Both cuisines celebrate an array of ingredients, from aromatic spices like cumin, coriander, and turmeric to fresh herbs, lentils, and rice. Spices are the heart of Indian and Bangladeshi cooking. Each dish tells a story through its unique blend of masalas (spice mixes). Whether it’s a fiery curry or a fragrant biryani, the balance of spices is key.

India alone boasts diverse regional cuisines—think of the fiery curries of Kerala, the tandoori delights of Punjab, or the vegetarian feasts of Gujarat. Similarly, Bangladeshi cuisine varies from the fish-centric dishes of the coastal regions to the hearty meals of the interior.

As you step into Itihaas, you’re greeted by an ambiance that radiates warmth and elegance. Their decor, is a fusion of traditional and contemporary elements, setting the perfect backdrop for an exquisite dining experience. The main dining area is bright and airy, with crisp white linen and serviettes to match and very comfortable seating.

The staff are friendly, welcoming, attentive, and eager to serve.

Our meal begins with crispy poppadoms (£1.10) accompanied by mint and yogurt sauce (£1.10), mango chutney (£1.10), sweet chili sauce (£1.10), and a refreshing onion salad (£1.10). These flavours are so irresistible that our hands remain glued to the plates.

The menu at Itihaas boasts an array of delectable dishes, ranging from succulent beef and chicken to tender lamb and flavourful fish. Vegetarians also have plenty of options to choose from. Highlights include the Itihaas Kebabs—charcoal-grilled and served with mint sauce—Tandoori dishes marinated in mildly spiced yogurt, aromatic Biryani cooked in ghee, and an abundance of delightful sides, rice, and bread options.

Samosa (£5.95) - These golden, crisp pastry parcels are filled with spiced lamb, fresh coriander, and a hint of chili. The lamb mince adds rich flavour and juiciness to the filling, creating a satisfying bite in every samosa. A delightful blend of savoury, aromatic spices wrapped in a crispy pastry shell—utterly irresistible!

Onion Bhaji (£5.95) - These fritters are made from thinly sliced onions coated in a spiced flour batter and deep-fried until golden and crispy. We enjoyed them as a starter but they’d also be wonderful alongside your favourite curry!

Lamb Pasanda (£15.95) - This North Indian dish offers a luxurious blend of flavours. Tender lamb pieces that have been marinated in a mix of yogurt, ground almonds, onion, ginger, and garlic. The creamy sauce is mildly spiced with cardamom, cinnamon, and other aromatic spices. It’s not very hot, making it family-friendly. It’s rich, nutty gravy enveloping succulent lamb pieces—pure comfort on a plate! As the meal progressed, the sauce thickened due to the hot plate. Personally, I would have preferred a thinner sauce.

Sag Gosht (£14.95) - Sometimes this dish is known as Lamb Palak; a delightful curry that combines tender pieces of lamb with creamy spinach. The lamb imparts a meaty richness, while the spinach adds a vibrant green freshness. The curry is seasoned with aromatic spices like cumin, coriander, fenugreek, and garam masala. These spices create layers of flavour without overpowering the dish. Fragrant and flavourfull!

Alo Gobi Massala (£9.55) - Essentially a spicy Cauliflower Potato Curry. It’s packed full of spices such as turmeric, cumin, coriander, and garam masala, adding warmth and depth. While the spices in this dish were quite pronounced, unfortunately, it didn’t suit my taste.

Basmati Rice (£4.50)

Peshwari Nan (£4.95) - stuffed with ground almonds and sultanas

Nan (£4.50)

Paratha (£5.25) - fried layered whole wheat bread

Our meal was a carb-filled adventure with these three breads. The Peshwari nan, generously adorned with almond paste, won my heart. However, the paratha felt a bit weighty. I’d pick either nan or paratha to pair with my curries. While the paratha bursts with flavour, it does hold onto some oil—unlike the drier texture of nan.

Whether you’re craving sweetness, simplicity, or layers of flavour, these Indian breads have something for everyone!

We had an absolutely delightful experience dining at Itihaas Indian restaurant. The food was scrumptious and left us feeling wonderfully satisfied. The drive to Dalkeith is definitely worth it for this authentic Indian feast!

THINGS TO NOTE ABOUT ITIHAAS RESTAURANT

• The bus stops close by so easily accessible from Edinburgh

• The restaurant and toilets are easily accessible, all on street level

• They are not dog friendly

• They have a wide range of vegetarian food available

Itihaas, 17-19 Eskbank Road, Dalkeith, EH22 1HD www.itihaasrestaurant.com

My Spoon Award : Silver Spoon 8/10

I was invited by Itihaas to review their menu.

Food and drink were complimentary but the views are very much my own.

TartanSpoon is an Award-winning blog that brings you reviews and recommendations on the very best places to eat, drink and stay in Edinburgh, Scotland and beyond.

Adele is a writer, reviewer, judge and panelist living in Edinburgh. She sits on the Committee for the Guild of Food Writers (Scottish Events),  is a Great Taste Judge for the Guild of Fine Food, Scottish Bakers, Scotland Food & Drink Excellence Awards and a Judge for the Gin Co-operative awards.

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