The Pukka Peacock

On Sandy Park Road in Brislington, The Pukka Peacock is the personal canvas of chef and co-owner Dhayalan Paul.

Having cooked since the age of seven and spent two decades travelling, cooking, and living across India, the UAE, and the UK, he brings warmth and precision to every plate. Profiled in Chrissie Walker’s Capital Spice in 2012, he now channels a chef-led ethos: consistency, sustainably sourced ingredients, and honest flavours.

With just twenty covers, the room is intimate and convivial, dressed in pre-loved furniture and locally sourced artisan elements. Service is friendly and attentive, the pace unhurried, and the plates quietly elegant.

Menus are Indian-inspired and home-style, refreshed with the seasons. Expect Kerala-leaning coconut notes and playful contrasts: a beetroot salad brightened by turmeric pachadi and chutney, watermelon lifted with tamarind relish and coconut yoghurt, or a comforting cauliflower ishtu alongside baked paneer with spinach and roast mushroom.

Sides such as crispy cauliflower and coconut-and-beans poriyal underline texture, while sweets like ginger- and star-anise-roasted peaches or a green cardamom sponge arrive with saffron-laced coconut sauce.

Book a cosy corner and let the spices lead the way,The Pukka Peacock is ready to welcome Bristol, one vibrant plate at a time.