Clay’s Kitchen: A Top Choice for Indian Takeaway in Reading
For those searching for a high-quality Indian takeaway in Reading, Clay’s Kitchen has established itself as a standout option. Known for its authentic flavours, thoughtful preparation, and innovative approach to delivery, Clay’s Kitchen brings the rich culinary traditions of Hyderabad straight to your home. Whether you are planning a cosy night in or simply craving something comforting and full of flavour, Clay’s offers a takeaway experience that goes far beyond the ordinary.
From Restaurant Dream to Takeaway Success
Clay’s Kitchen is the creation of chef-owners Nandana and Sharat, who fulfilled their dream of opening a restaurant in 2018. After signing a lease in 2017 and dedicating months of effort to building their vision, they introduced Reading to authentic regional Hyderabadi cuisine in June of that year.
Their cooking philosophy has always been centred on authenticity and individuality. Each dish is prepared using spices and ingredients sourced from India, carefully balanced with high-quality local and British produce. What sets Clay’s apart is the attention to detail; every spice mix is unique to the dish it accompanies, ensuring that each bite delivers a distinct and memorable flavour.
The menu reflects the culinary heritage of Hyderabad, combining the richness of dishes once enjoyed by the Royal Nizams with the bold, vibrant flavours of Andhra street food. This commitment to storytelling through food is just as evident in our takeaway offering as it is in our restaurant dining experience.
Adapting to Bring Restaurant-Quality Food Home
When the COVID-19 pandemic presented challenges for the hospitality industry, Clay’s Kitchen adapted in a way that transformed its business. As a small and intimate restaurant without outdoor seating, reopening immediately was not a viable option. Instead, the team focused on delivering our food directly to customers’ homes.
We began offering a takeaway and delivery service using a blast-chilling process, preparing our dishes and vacuum-packing them to preserve freshness and flavour. This method ensures that customers can enjoy restaurant-quality meals at home, simply by heating them when ready to eat.
Following a successful local trial, Clay expanded its delivery service nationwide in August 2020. This bold step allowed us to reach a much wider audience while maintaining the integrity of our food. The takeaway service quickly gained recognition and praise, including coverage from respected food critics such as Jay Rayner, Tom Parker Bowles, and William Sitwell.
A Menu Designed for Takeaway Enjoyment
Clay’s Kitchen’s takeaway menu offers an impressive range of dishes that showcase the diversity of Indian cuisine. Customers can begin with flavourful small plates such as Indian-style hot pickles, available with cauliflower, green chilli, or chicken, or enjoy light bites like Phool Makhna with curry leaf masala and corn ribs with Clay’s signature spice powder.
Other popular options include tapioca papad with Keralan onion chutney, idli fingers with podi and peanut coconut chutney, and the much-loved aloo tikki chat, which combines spicy, tangy, and cooling flavours in one bite. These dishes are perfect for sharing or enjoying as part of a varied meal at home.
For something more substantial, the menu features a selection of mains that highlight Clay’s culinary expertise. Dishes such as bhuna venison slow-cooked in its own juices and Clay’s chicken ghee roast offer rich and bold flavours, while saag paneer kofta in a creamy tomato sauce provides a comforting vegetarian option.
Seafood lovers can enjoy grilled jumbo king prawns with savoury tokku, and those seeking hearty, indulgent dishes will appreciate the braised beef short ribs with nalli nihari sauce. The lamb shank biryani is another standout, delivering deep, aromatic flavours that are perfect for a satisfying takeaway meal.
To complete the experience, sides such as baghara rice, a Hyderabadi-style pulao, and John’s mixed basket of rotis provide the perfect accompaniments. Dishes like smoked tamarind dal add depth and balance, making it easy to create a well-rounded meal at home.
A Reputation Built on Quality and Care
Even as a takeaway, Clay’s Kitchen maintains the same high standards that made its restaurant so popular. Every dish is prepared with care, ensuring that the flavours remain true to their origins. This dedication has earned Clay’s a loyal following, with many customers returning time and again for their takeaway meals.
The restaurant also received awards from local platforms in its early days, reflecting its strong connection with the community. Customers often describe the experience of Clay’s food, whether at home or in the restaurant, as something personal and comforting, like being cooked for by friends.
The Perfect Balance of Convenience and Authenticity
In July 2021, after sixteen months, Clay’s Kitchen reopened its doors, offering both dine-in and takeaway options. The updated menu combines classic favourites with new creations, ensuring there is always something exciting to try. A carefully curated wine list, developed by consultant Zeren Wilson, further enhances the overall offering.
However, the takeaway service remains a key part of what makes Clay’s special. It allows customers across the UK to enjoy authentic Hyderabadi cuisine without needing to travel, bringing the restaurant’s signature flavours directly to their homes.
A Top Choice for Indian Takeaway in Reading
Clay’s Kitchen has successfully redefined what an Indian takeaway can be. By combining traditional recipes, high-quality ingredients, and innovative preparation methods, it delivers a takeaway experience that feels both authentic and elevated.
For anyone looking for a top choice for Indian takeaway in Reading, Clay’s Kitchen offers the perfect solution. With its rich flavours, carefully crafted dishes, and commitment to quality, it provides a dining experience that is just as enjoyable at home as it is in the restaurant, making it a true favourite among Indian food lovers.
