Essence

Based in Altrincham for over 20 years, Essence is the curry house of choice for many locals.

The restaurant has been in the same family for even longer, previously being known as Eastern Promise.

Outside of the town centre, about 15 minutes walk from the market or 5 minutes walk from Navigation Road, it's one of those restaurants that you have to know about. It's the worst kept secret in Altrincham and once you discover it, it's rare you look anywhere else.

Essence boasts a loyal customer base, some of which are known to visit several times a week.

The word traditional is key here. All the traditional Indian dishes you'd expect at a British Indian Restaurant. Traditional good quality customer service and a warm welcome. Traditional good value and huge portions. Essence isn't a restaurant you go to for expensive street food, an Instagram moment or ordering on an app. It knows what its regulars like and it does it well.

Whether it's a Vindaloo (or even hotter a Phaal) or something mild like a Korma they promise you'll be licking your lips. Some of their most popular dishes are the house special such as Akbari Cham Cham, Jhali Juli and Chicken Chilli.

In recent years they've adapted to customer demands and launched a vegan menu alongside their regular menu featuring 8 vegan dishes plus the vegan thali.

If you've never been before, we recommend you check out the Sunday Special Happy Night Menu for £16.95 or try their Thali's so you can try a little bit of everything.

They also tease "Off menu" secret dishes on their social media and are happy to accommodate requests from customers.

Wherever you search for Essence you'll see exceptional reviews - in this case, it really is a story of DO believe the hype!