Review: Indico, Solihull

After years of serving up delicious dishes in Shirley, a popular boutique Indian street food restaurant has brought its bold flavours to a new location in Solihull’s Touchwood Shopping Centre.

The move to more spacious premises signals a new chapter for the independent brand, Indico. Formerly known for its vibrant Bollywood-themed interiors that danced with colour, texture, and cinematic flair, the restaurant has reopened with a new design direction, one of understated elegance and elevated charm.

Situated on the ground floor, the team have reimagined the space with a quiet, elegant decor.

Think soft ambient lighting, textured neutrals, artisan finishes, and carefully curated details that whisper sophistication, whilst still paying homage to India with quirky nods to Mumbai street culture.

Indico prides itself on taking diners on a flavourful adventure through the bustling streets of India with a menu bursting with authentic Indian street food. From sizzling chaat and crispy samosas, to smoky tandoori grills and rich, aromatic curries, there’s also a range of comforting classics like butter chicken and dal makhani.

The menu is varied and interesting, options ranging from the popular curries and chaats, to Thali (combining favourite Indian dishes on one plate), Tawa Rolls (Paratha flatbreads cooked on a tawa and finished off with lashings of butter) and even, North-Indian inspired, Paaji Burgers (served in a brioche bun with a side of spicy masala fries.)

Our chosen dishes were evidence of Indico’s popularity among locals. Gol Gappa Bombs (pastry shells filled with seasoned potatoes, chickpeas, sweetened yoghurt, mint and tamarind chutney) gave an explosion of flavour on the tongue. As did the Lollipop Fried Chicken (chicken marinated in a tangy, chilli soy sauce deep fried on the bone for maximum flavour).

My Butter Chicken (Delhi-style chicken tikka cooked in a rich creamy sauce made of butter and tomatoes finished with fenugreek leaves) and my dining companion’s Chicken Biryani – did you know biryani hails from Persian culture and was later brought to India by the Mughals – were tasty, piping hot and plentiful. (You might wish to skip lunch to make the most of the culinary experience on offer!)

Vegetarians and vegans are well catered for too, with a wide range of wholesome plant-based options crafted with traditional Indian flair like pau bhaji and bhel puri.

A small selection of Indian sweets and desserts, includes Gulab Jamun (soft milk dumplings, deep fried and soaked in a rose-scented sugar syrup and served with panacotta ice-cream) and Gajar Ka Halwa (grated carrots cooked and sweetened in condensed milk and served with panacotta ice-cream) among the highlights. But if these particularly sweet dishes appeal be sure to pace yourself. What remained of my appetite only allowed for the light Mango Passion dessert – (mango and passionfruit sorbet served with fresh strawberries.) A delightfully refreshing palate cleanser to complete the experience.

Cocktails are a star attraction, the thoughtfully curated menu celebrating the lively culture of North India – its movies, traditions and ingredients. The drinks are crafted with rich spices and a modern twist, with offerings such as From Goa With Love made with Goan single malt whiskey and Full Moon made with Elderflower Gin. As the designated driver, no sacrifices were made thanks to a decent selection of non-alcoholic signature cocktails. My Malabar Sunset (Afsana Beauty, Mango, Papaya, Pineapple, Passion Fruit and Vanilla) was a tantalisingly moreish accompaniment to the delicious meal.

The ’street food’ description, in my opinion, undersells this menu which, based on my first visit, actually elevates the standard Indian dining experience to a new level of appreciation and exploration.

Whether you’re craving a quick refuel from the retail therapy, a fun family dinner, or a night out with friends, Indico promises food with soul, service with a smile, and a relaxed and welcoming vibe.

Visit: www.indicostreetkitchen.com

[Items in this article may have been gifted to Chatting Food. No financial payment has been made to feature in this article, and entries to the feature are made independently by members of the Editorial Team. This page contains affiliate links and we may receive a small commission for purchases] 

Amanda is a journalist of 30 years and now runs an award-winning PR agency based in Warwickshire. When she's not writing about her own clients she loves to help spotlight the great work of other pubs, restaurants and hotels around the country.

www.chalmersnewspr.co.uk