Last month, Gloucester Quays welcomed its newest culinary gem, MUSE Brasserie, a unique French-Indian fusion restaurant that instantly caught my attention. During a rainy lunchtime stroll, I decided to escape the drizzle and experience what this exciting new spot had to offer.
MUSE Brasserie is the third branch of the well-regarded MUSE brand, joining its siblings in Cheltenham and Bristol. Nestled among familiar chains like Nando’s, Pizza Express, Zizzi, and Wagamama, MUSE stands out as a distinctive, independent venue bringing fresh, upscale dining to the city centre.
Already earning a glowing 5-star rating on Tripadvisor, customers have praised both the stunning venue and outstanding food. Walking in on a quiet Wednesday afternoon, I was immediately taken by the restaurant’s elegant atmosphere. Plush velvet seating, a striking blossom tree artfully extending along the ceiling, and soft fairy lights create a warm yet sophisticated vibe. The staff, dressed sharply in suits, complement the powder-pink and blue décor, blending classiness with playful charm.
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Seated comfortably by the window, I watched the bustling Docks outside and eagerly scanned the menu. The lunch special caught my eye: for just £14.95 (available 12-3pm, Monday-Friday), you can enjoy a main course and a drink — options include a small glass of wine, half-pint of beer, or a soft drink. The special features either a 5oz minute steak with skinny fries and butter or a vegetarian MUSE vegan thali, an Indian-style platter of small tasting dishes.
Considering the steak is normally £19 and the thali usually costs £22, the deal was irresistible. I opted for the vegan thali, excited to try the variety it promised.
When my meal arrived, I was pleasantly surprised by its generous portion size. The thali included six miniature dishes: fragrant rice, crunchy papadums, a pea kofta, buttery dal makhani, flavorful dum aloo (a potato curry), and porriyal, a vibrant South Indian vegetable stir-fry, all accompanied by a flaky, buttery paratha bread perfect for savoring the sauces.
Each bite brought new flavors, but the standout dishes for me were the creamy dum aloo and the rich dal makhani—comforting and indulgent without being heavy. The paratha was light and delightful, the perfect partner in crime for mopping up every last taste.
Though I skipped dessert, I noticed nearby diners enjoying a rhubarb crumble trifle that looked absolutely tempting—definitely a reason to return.
If you’re after a dining experience that feels just a bit special without a hefty price tag, MUSE Brasserie at Gloucester Quays is a fantastic choice. It’s a beautiful venue with remarkable food and a welcoming atmosphere—I’ll be back to explore more of the menu soon.