The Pukka Peacock Bristol is an independent, family-owned and run restaurant in Brislington, cooking up fresh, homestyle Indian dishes. Founded by husband and wife team, Saritha and Dhayalan Paul, this is a restaurant years in the making. The pair met aged just 15, and after Dhayalan’s cricketing career didn’t pan out, they turned to their greatest shared passion: cooking and hospitality. The result? A local restaurant with a neighbourhood feel, beautifully plated dishes, and menus that change regularly.
Inside, The Pukka Peacock dining room is warm and friendly. It’s small and intimate, seating around twenty guests across pre-loved and upcycled furniture, with features that come from artisans and independent artists right here in Bristol. Bright and colourful elements, potted plants, woven baskets, and colourful artwork add character, while an open kitchen allows guests insight into the artistry there, contributing to a homey, convivial atmosphere.
The Pukka Peacock menu kicks off with starters like sundul chickpea salad (a Tamil Nadu-style dish), watermelon salad with tamarind relish and coconut yoghurt, and crispy fried mushroom varuval with tomato chutney. Main courses, meanwhile, range from baked paneer with a spinach and roast mushroom sauce and catch of the day in coconut curry leaf and tomato sauce to signature ‘pukka’ fried chicken with a tomato fenugreek cardamom sauce with masala mashed potatoes.
As for desserts, The Pukka Peacock offers star anise spiced rhubarb with coconut yoghurt and granola, Biscoff cheesecake, and green cardamom sponge with a saffron-infused coconut sauce. It’s all seasonal, so likely to change. On Sundays, guests can expect lentil dosa, plates of waffles and chicken, and pancakes. What’s more, The Pukka Peacock also serves a kids' menu, so whether you're celebrating a birthday, looking to support a local business, or simply gathering the family, everyone can get involved.