Cheltenham boasts numerous excellent curry houses, some nationally acclaimed, but one nearby spot quietly making waves is Jai Ho in Bishop’s Cleeve. Recently awarded a Michelin Bib Gourmand, this modest restaurant remains largely undiscovered—yet its food and atmosphere make it well worth the trip.
Nestled just four miles north of Cheltenham, Jai Ho is tucked away in a residential area surrounded by industrial estates, sitting snugly between a Domino’s Pizza outlet and a doctor’s surgery, with a gym overhead. The unconventional location might raise doubts, but inside is a warm, inviting space with cozy décor and enticing aromas from the kitchen.
Opened in January 2025, Jai Ho is a fresh venture from JM Socials, a group behind several Cheltenham eateries including Privthi, listed among Britain’s top 100 Indian restaurants by the British Indian Good Food Guide. Earning a Bib Gourmand early on speaks volumes—this Michelin accolade highlights eateries offering refined cuisine at great value.
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At just over £20 per person for starters and mains, Jai Ho’s prices reflect its accessible approach without compromising quality. Inside, soft lighting and lush greenery create a comfortable ambience. The menu offers two choices: a traditional selection featuring classics like onion bhajis and roghan ghosht, or a £34.90 “Feast” sharing menu served across the table, ideal for groups sampling a range of dishes. The Feast menu, however, must be ordered by the whole party, limiting flexibility if preferences vary.
Our group opted for the standard menu and savored starters like bang bang cauliflower with curry mayo, and crispy potato and pea samosas. Mains included a spicy chicken Chettinad, a tangy paneer dish, and Kashmiri lamb roghan ghosht—all prepared fresh with balanced spice, perfect for those who prefer milder flavours.
The true surprise was the chicken biryani, a simple yet exceptional dish ordered by my husband but eagerly shared. The aromatic rice combined fresh mint, ginger, and garlic, with what seemed like a subtle fruity sweetness, making it incredibly moreish. Generously portioned at £13, it’s a dish I’ll be returning for.
Jai Ho replaces the traditional naan with paratha—a flakier, layered flatbread that’s buttery and slightly smaller. While some in our party missed naan’s familiar texture, I personally favored the paratha’s rich flavor.
The meal concluded perfectly with a complimentary glass of hot chai tea, a new and delightful experience for me that cleansed the palate wonderfully.
Overall, Jai Ho surpassed my expectations. Despite its unpretentious location and humble exterior, it delivers delicious food, a relaxed vibe, and exceptional value. It’s a hidden culinary gem near Cheltenham that deserves a visit—sometimes the best finds aren’t immediately obvious.