Clay’s Kitchen & Bar is a celebrated Indian restaurant located in Caversham, Reading. Established in 2018 by chef-owners Nandana and Sharat Syamala, the restaurant specialises in authentic regional cuisine from Hyderabad and Andhra Pradesh, offering a distinctive dining experience that blends traditional flavours with contemporary flair. In February 2023, Clay’s relocated to its current premises, a former Wetherspoon pub, which has been transformed into a vibrant and welcoming space featuring warm hues, skylights, and an open-plan layout.
The team at Clay’s places a strong emphasis on storytelling through food, with each dish carefully crafted to reflect personal memories and regional traditions from the chefs' upbringing in India. The restaurant’s open kitchen invites diners to observe the culinary process, adding to the immersive experience. Clay’s often hosts themed tasting evenings and collaborative events with local producers.
The menu at Clay’s is a homage to the rich culinary heritage of South India, with dishes inspired by the royal courts of the Nizams and the bustling streets of Andhra. Highlights include Meka Mamsam (Andhra-style goat curry), chicken Xacuti (chicken thighs with coconut and dried tamarind), and a selection of Hyderabadi-style dum biryanis featuring lamb, chicken, shrimp or paneer. Vegetarian options such as Indrahar (a steamed lentil cake in rich tomato sauce) and Shahi Paneer Kofta (deep-fried cheese balls in creamy sauce) are also available. The restaurant offers a curated wine list featuring selections that complement the bold flavours of the dishes, including Rieslings and lighter red wines.
Beyond its dine-in service, Clay’s extends its reach through Clay’s @ Home, a nationwide delivery service offering vacuum-packed, ready-to-heat meals. This initiative has garnered national acclaim, with recognition from food critics and media outlets. Whether dining in or enjoying a meal at home, Clay’s provides an authentic and memorable taste of South India in the heart of Reading.