Pakka

Perched in Cambridge's historic Castle area, a short walk up from the river, Pakka brings the bright, distinctive flavours of South India to this corner of the city. It took over a long-running Keralan site in 2021 and gave the room a clean, modern Indian look in warm creams and mint. The kitchen specialises in Malabar cooking, and the menu rewards a little adventurousness: a fragrant Chicken Biryani sits alongside the much-praised Erachi Ularthiyath, a dry, deeply spiced meat dish that regulars rate as a real standout.

Alongside the South Indian specialities you will find familiar favourites, plenty of vegetarian choices and crisp dosas, so it works for both curious eaters and anyone after something more recognisable. Reviews are generally warm, praising the flavour and value, though a few note service can slow at busy times, worth knowing if you are ordering a takeaway at the weekend. It runs as both a sit-down restaurant and a takeaway, handy for the residential streets and colleges nearby. For South Indian cooking a little different from the usual curry-house line-up, it is a welcome option on this side of town.