Red Fort Caerleon on Cross Street celebrates five-star food hygiene rating

Despite only opening last month, the restaurant has already been voted by South Wales Argus readers as the best Indian restaurant in Newport, with it achieving a five-star food hygiene rating in its inspection on Wednesday.

Red Fort Caerleon (Picture: Chris Tinsley)

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It features a classy interior, including beautifully laid out tables and a clear lit-up wall with bubbles that filter upwards serving as a conversational piece for guests dining in.

The 'bubble wall' at Red Fort Caerleon

Those in a rush need not fear, as they also have a takeaway option which is collection only.

Upon entry, guests are greeted and seated by the friendly staff. The cosy venue is relatively small, with nine dining tables, so it’s recommended that diners’ book in advance.

Owner, Faisel Rahman, who formerly owned Popadoms in Newport city centre, said: “We still have huge demand, so reserving a place is the best way to avoid disappointment.”

Papadums to tuck into whilst you browse the menu

The menu is an abundance of options, including food for vegetarians, and includes various starters, mains, specialities, dishes and sides, plus a delightful dessert menu.

Staff are attentive but not pushy, and conversational, ensuring that diners are satisfied with their service.

It’s a welcoming atmosphere to soak up the lovely aromas of Indian cuisine, with gentle background music.

Chicken bhuna with onions, capsicum, and tomato

The food, dished up in hot metal bowls, is delicious. Our group of diners sampled an array of curry dishes, with all commenting on the meat ‘falling apart’ in our mouths and the fresh, soft warmth of the naan bread.

Word of warning though: the jalfrezi is not for the faint-hearted (although we didn’t dare try the vindaloo and Ceylon – their most ‘extravagantly hot’ dish!)

Chicken jalfrezi cooked with fresh green chillies, onions and green peppers

Red Fort Caerleon also offers a huge selection of drinks for those who fancy a tipple, including wines, beers, spirits and liqueurs, with soft drinks also on offer.

Despite its luxurious appearance, the restaurant is extremely welcoming and catered to our party – including two young children – and the many guests who filled the building throughout our meal.

It was a fabulous experience, which left us stuffed, with a little room for dessert. Their strawberry flute, which is essentially an ice-cream, was described by a diner as the ‘creamiest, loveliest’ ice-cream they’d ever eaten.

The strawberry flute is one of many dessert options

With bellies full (and tongues slightly burning) the evening was concluded by bantering with waiters who promptly cleared the table and provided scented hot flannels to clean ourselves up with.

Those looking for an unforgettable dining experience should visit Red Fort Caerleon, which has a pay and display car park nearby and is open from 5.30pm until 11.30pm seven days a week.

One of the tables at the quaint Red Fort Caerleon

Reserve your place – or order for collection – by phoning 01633 430086 or 01633 422489.

To find out more about Red Fort Caerleon, or browse their menu, visit their website at