The Khayber

Out towards the Galgorm side of Ballymena, The Khayber has earned a reputation as one of the area's standout Indian kitchens, drawing diners from as far as Belfast who reckon it beats anything in the city. The cooking leans on fragrant, freshly ground spices, and the kitchen turns out richly sauced curries alongside tandoori favourites such as Chicken Tikka. Warm, helpful staff and generous portions are a recurring theme in reviews, and the restaurant holds a rating of 4.4 out of 5 on Google.

Whether you are eating in or taking away, expect a proper sit-down standard of cooking, with breads, rice dishes and a broad spread of meat and vegetarian options. A handful of diners mention that extras can add up, but the overwhelming view is of authentic, satisfying food and attentive service. For anyone in the wider Ballymena area craving a curry that feels a cut above the usual midweek takeaway, this is a name that comes up again and again.