OpenOriental Chef
81 Front St, Newbiggin-by-the-Sea NE64 6AD, United Kingdom
Welcome to Shaj
Shaj invites you to experience authentic Indian cuisine in a casual and cozy atmosphere. Located at 14-15 High St, Newbiggin-by-the-Sea, this restaurant provides a wonderful dining experience with its extensive menu featuring over 70 dishes. The cozy, friendly service and a fantastic selection of wines and beers enhance the dining experience. The highlight here is the flavorful curries, with unique options for vegetarians and vegans alike. Whether you're dining in or taking away, Shaj guarantees that every meal is a memorable one.
Welcome to Shaj, your cozy Indian restaurant in Newbiggin-by-the-Sea, where authentic flavors meet a relaxed atmosphere. Located on High Street, we specialize in serving up delicious curries, tandoori dishes, and small plates perfect for solo dining or enjoying with friends. Our extensive beer and wine list complements every meal, making it an ideal spot for dinner or late-night cravings. With wheelchair-accessible seating and a friendly vibe, Shaj is great for families and groups alike. Join us for a culinary journey that promises exceptional value and unforgettable tastes. Reservations are recommended to secure your table!Services, Amenities and More
Service options
Takeaway
Dine-in
Highlights
Great beer selection
Great wine list
Popular for
Dinner
Solo dining
Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible entrance
Wheelchair-accessible seating
Offerings
Alcohol
Beer
Coffee
Late-night food
Small plates
Spirits
Wine
Dining options
Dinner
Dessert
Seating
Table service
Photo Gallery
View Menu Photos
Reviews Overview
Most Liked
Patrons rave about Shaj's friendly staff who enhance the dining experience with exceptional service, making everyone feel like family. The menu's authenticity steals the show, with dishes like the Achar curry and fiery Vindaloo capturing the hearts of spice lovers.
Many guests highlight the generous portions and reasonable prices, with the Thursday set menu offering incredible value. The Ginger Rice and Peshwari Naan receive frequent praise for their flavor and texture. Breakfast offerings like hearty omelettes are also appreciated, providing variety beyond traditional Indian fare. Overall, Shaj emerges as a beloved spot for those seeking quality food in a welcoming environment.
Most Disliked
Some guests note that the decor could use a refresh, describing it as slightly dated. However, they agree that this doesn’t overshadow the amazing dining experience.
Occasional waiting times during peak hours can happen, especially during busy evenings and weekends. Make sure to reserve a table if dining during these times to avoid disappointment. As a takeaway option, some visitors have mentioned a desire for more efficient service during busy periods.
Lastly, while many appreciate the extensive vegetarian options, a few diners have expressed hope for broader choices in certain less-spicy dishes.
User Reviews
sp
sarah p.
Fab little Indian joint. A little dated but don't let that put you off. The menu offers some more authentic options which are particularly delicious. The ginger rice and Peshwari naan are banging, and the Achar curry is amazing. Plenty of vegetarian/vegan starters and a lot of the curries can be made with veg instead of meat. Staff are always friendly. Never had a bad experience.
JS
JE S.
We stayed in New Briggin for 7 nights and ate here twice. The food is plentiful and cost just right. Parking is plentiful on the quiet roads around. Thursday night is a set menu night if you wish to use it. Portions aren't smaller. If we lived nearer we would regularly visit. ALL the staff are extremely friendly and professional.
LG
Laura G.
We turned up late but service and options were fully met. No pressure to rush. Menu is extensive and lots of different veggie options. £15 3 course special was on but we chose different and the price was amazing so cheap for good quality food. The raita was the best we'd ever tasted and the lime pickle was lovely. The staff couldn't be faulted you can see why it was busy. Worth a visit definitely
cj
christine j.
1st visit to this restaurant, we are staying on the mobile home park next door. The food was amazing and the staff very friendly would fully recommend to everyone. We had pre booked our table and was just as well as restaurant was busy which is good to see
Ro
Robert
Excellent service… excellent food… every time! Very helpful & accommodating with one of our party who has food allergies. Thank you!
EG
Emma G.
It's the best Indian takeaway and restaurant. Every year we come to Newbiggin and eat lots of their fantastic food. The staff in there are always so happy and friendly and it's a pleasure going in there.
NB
Nikita B.
The food is amazing. I went a month ago and I still think about it often! The pakora and chicken tikka masala here were the best I've ever had. The staff were also lovely. Updated review: Went back several years later and it lives up to how I remember it and we keep talking about it. It was incredible and very reasonably priced. We had 3 mains, 3 naans, 4 starters, a side of rice to share and 3 drinks - for under £60.
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Location & Hours
Opening Hours
MondayOpen
TuesdayOpen
WednesdayOpen
ThursdayOpen
FridayOpen
SaturdayOpen
SundayOpen
Location
Frequently Asked Questions
Shaj operates daily, providing a convenient option for dinner every night of the week.
Yes, Shaj is family-friendly and offers high chairs for younger diners, making it a great option for kids.
Guests can pay using credit cards, debit cards, and NFC mobile payments, ensuring a smooth transaction.
It is recommended to make dinner reservations, especially during peak times, to secure a table.
Why visit Shaj
Visiting Shaj is a culinary delight. The casual yet vibrant atmosphere makes it ideal for any outing, whether you're dining solo or with friends. Reservations are recommended, especially on Thursday nights when a delicious set menu is available at an unbeatable price, ensuring a well-rounded experience.
Parking is free and conveniently available, making it easy to swing by after a day of exploring Newbiggin-by-the-Sea. Pro tip: consider trying the Ginger Rice and Achar curry for a unique culinary journey that really showcases the depth of flavors here. Whether it's a casual dinner or a special occasion, Shaj stands out as a must-visit spot for its delectable dishes and welcoming vibe.
