Tom Cruise goes for a curry in St Albans

PA

From Hollywood to... Hertfordshire? Tom Cruise was last pictured dining at the upmarket Madeo's in LA on Sunday night but, just two days later, he was tucking into a chicken tikka masala at a curry house in St Albans.

The actor is in the area because he is shooting his latest film, All You Need Is Kill, also starring Emily Blunt, at Leavesden Studios.

Staff at the Veer Dhara restaurant on St Peter's Street said they were more than a little surprised to see their A-list guest.

Restaurant owner Darshit Hora told the Herts Advertiser: "It's very remarkable to have such a legendary Hollywood actor visit our restaurant, it adds well to the selling point! He seemed very relaxed and just wanted to have a nice evening with his family."

The actor arrived with seven guests and two bodyguards after travelling 15 miles to visit the restaurant following a recommendation.

Mr Hora said: "The bodyguards told us he wanted a hassle-free evening with no interruptions. So when he arrived, none of the guests noticed, and we were able to fully respect his request."

The group tucked into lobster, vegetable and chicken dishes, and sipped on water, cokes, and coffees.

Waiter Ashish Srivasdava told the Telegraph: "When I greeted him I was smiling and so was he and that's when I realised it was him.

"I was shaking, I was so nervous. At first I couldn't look in his eyes. I regret not asking for a photo or autograph now but at the time it wasn't professional."

When it came to settling the bill, Mr Hora could not accept Tom's American Express card. He explained: "We had to unfortunately decline Tom Cruise's card as we didn't accept American Express which made him laugh, but luckily one of his party was able to pay the bill in cash."

And the group kindly left a £79.15 tip on a £220.85 bill.

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