Chillim Kitchen

If you ever find yourself wandering the streets of Reading and craving something flavorful, bold, and refreshingly different, Chillim Kitchen on West Street is the kind of place you’ll want to stumble into. Nestled at 13 West St, Reading RG1 1TT, this spot brings together the warmth of South Asian comfort food and the vibrant energy of a modern, cozy eatery. Whether you're popping in solo for a quick bite or planning a laid-back dinner with friends, Chillim Kitchen makes it surprisingly easy to feel at home.

The menu here is a joyous mashup of Indian, Nepalese, and fusion dishes that go far beyond your standard curry house lineup. One of the first things you’ll notice is how varied and vibrant the selection is-whether you’re a meat lover, a spice chaser, or a vegetarian looking for flavor-packed plates, there’s something here for you.

Start things off with a round of Samosa Chaat or Aloo Chops-crunchy, tangy, and full of textures. Then maybe move on to the Chicken Thukpa, a Himalayan-style noodle soup that somehow manages to be both deeply comforting and complex in flavor. It’s the kind of dish that wraps around your taste buds like a warm blanket on a cold day.

The Momos deserve a category of their own. You’ll find both fried and jhol styles on the menu-dumplings soaked in a tangy, spicy tomato-based broth. It’s a Nepalese street food staple, and Chillim Kitchen does it justice with handmade care and just the right level of heat. Pair that with Chicken Fried Rice or the more herbaceous Basil Fried Rice, and you’ve got a satisfying, well-rounded meal.

What sets Chillim Kitchen apart, beyond the variety and execution, is the thought that clearly goes into balancing the dishes. Take the Thali, for instance-an artfully arranged platter with multiple small portions of curry, lentils, rice, and sides. It’s perfect for indecisive eaters or anyone wanting a bit of everything.

Seafood fans won’t want to miss the Prawns Tempura-lightly battered, golden perfection-or the Fried Shrimp, which offers a crisp, spicy bite that works beautifully with a cold pint. Speaking of drinks, the restaurant also serves beer, wine, cocktails, and a particularly well-reviewed tea selection, making it a great choice for everything from a casual lunch to a weekend night out.

Accessibility is also thoughtfully considered-there’s wheelchair-accessible seating, and the dine-in experience feels inclusive and welcoming. For those days when you’d rather stay in, Chillim Kitchen offers delivery and takeaway, so you can enjoy their vibrant menu from the comfort of your own sofa.

Another pleasant surprise is the dessert menu. You might not expect it, but there’s a solid lineup of great desserts here, including some traditional South Asian sweets that rarely make it to mainstream menus. Whether you’re ending your meal with something sugary or just grabbing a quick afternoon tea, you’ll find something that hits the spot.

And let’s not overlook the vibe. It’s got that low-key charm-unpretentious, friendly, and just the right mix of hustle and calm. You can drop in for a casual dinner, enjoy a drink or two, or sit back with a coffee and people-watch through the front windows. Plus, it’s popular for lunch and dinner, and solo diners will feel just as comfortable as larger groups.

From the Chicken Tikka with its smoky char, to the bright flavors of Dahi Puri, Chillim Kitchen is less about flashy presentation and more about delivering consistently satisfying, soulful food. It’s a place that quietly does its job really well-and once you’ve tasted it, it’s likely to earn a regular spot in your rotation.