Last month, Zahir, Mein Host at Shahi Mahal (452 Cathcart Rd., Govanhill, Glasgow G40 7B2) and Hector were discussing the Daily Specials. After Ramadan, Bateera (£7.50) would be available once again on Mondays. 
Today, a holiday Monday, the Hector set out to verify.
Entering at 13.10, Zahir was on the phone taking a complex Order. He interrupted the call to acknowledge my entrance and my speculative cry of – Bateera?
One of four containers in the glass counter was duly removed.
Bateera in Shorva! – was his positive response.
The phone-call continued, this gave me time to consider a Bread accompaniment. Why have a Roti (£1.00) when one can have a Nan (£1.25) for a few pennies more? The Glasgow Southside Curry Cafes, the land of affordability and sensibility, as the Hector looks back two Blog entries to Bombay Darbar (Miami FL).
I took a seat in the booth where the table mysteriously looks truncated. The time it took the kitchen to reheat the Curry and prepare a Naan, was minimal. Zahir brought the goodies on a tray.
Salad and Raita are always part of the meal at Shahi Mahal, and one pays for these. Empty plates were brought, for the bones.
The splendidly huge Naan, served whole, was approaching – Rogni – in style. With multiple perforations to prevent it rising, well fired, burnt blisters just about forming.
I warned Zahir that I would do well to manage half. This he misunderstood, took the Naan away and cut it. The two – quarters – I might manage.
Bateera
Two – Birds – sat in the steaming hot Shorva. Coriander Leaves and Stems would add that bit extra. What I had seen in the original plastic container appeared to have swelled in portion size.
Bateera has featured semi-regularly in these pages, a Wednesday treat at Kabana Cheetham Hill (Manchester). Always a pair, one would be insulting, three too many. The legs and torsos were separated, I cheekily rearranged the layout.
Always a Shorva, so the spoon would be put to good use. Prior to this, a dipping fest. Pieces of Naan were duly immersed, the Spice Level of the Shorva took me a bit by surprise. The Seasoning was a la Hector. This was quite a Shorva.
Zahir asked if I was familiar with – Shorva.
I assured him I was used to having it with Kofta Anda.
I related to Zahir that I first had Bateera on my first visit to Sheerin Palace back in 2010. Sheerin Palace no longer serve Bateera. It is possible that Zahir had cooked it, or even served me. Bird – was how this poultry was described, before establishing that Bateera is Quail, a word neither of us used today. Zahir told me he first presented Bateera at Karahi Palace back in 2004. Having met him there subsequently as a visitor, I never knew he had worked there. Back then, the Hector had yet to discover the adjacent – Village – never mind – Karahi Palace – which, sadly, has well and truly gone.
A Bullet Chilli cut lengthways, was unearthed in the Salad. I added the two halves to the Shorva then ate one. Oh, why did I do that?
Having retreated to the kitchen, Zahir returned with a glass of Natural Lassi. A different experience for the Hector who is used to Mango Lassi. I would have this for – Dessert.
So taken was I with the Shorva, Naan and Bateera Legs, the torsos almost became an afterthought. The spoon halved the Bird, the carcass soon revealed. Not a lot of eating here, a fraction of what one would have in a Chicken Curry. However, this was not Chicken Curry. Bateera absorbs, the Meat is way more porous than its larger counterpart. Gamey in Flavour, and dipped back in the Shorva, even more flavoursome.
Cinnamon, I had already recorded, then a second distinctive Spice was recognised – Anise.
Nibbling at the Salad, dipping the Naan, fiddling with the footery Bird, the antithesis of the fayre enjoyed a few days back at Yadgar. Hector cannot live by Karahi alone.
With the bones sucked dry, the Soup supped, and as much Bread as could be accommodated taken on board, the appetite was sated. A young lady cleared the table. Time for Dessert.
The Lassi turned out to be Sweeter than anticipated, but still close to drinking Yoghurt. As much as I love Mango Lassi, having it with or after Curry surely counters the Flavours of the Spice? Relief for those who may require it, unnecessary otherwise, Plain Lassi may actually complement Spice.
For Hector this was the end, but nearly not so. Zahir appeared at the table with a modest plate of Lamb Chops Aloo, a deluxe Aloo Gosht. I assumed he was offering this for me to sample, but no way could I tackle it. Fortunately the food was not wasted, Zahir sat in the next booth and had this for lunch.
The Bill
£13.00
The Aftermath
There was mention of Karahi next Monday, tempting.
Apart from the persistent rain, did anything else happen today?
Today’s visit to 
We watched the remaining staff arrive, it is a long time since Chef Arshad has been seen, Naveed too. We were waiting for The Good Doctor, drinks were sorted, Mango Rubicon for all, the first of two rounds. 
Chana, closer to Masala than Chat, was next to arrive. Warm rather than hot, this was the Starter least enthused over. The lack of Seasoning was its limitation. Even after the five had taken a Soupçon, an appreciable quantity remained after the real stuff had been taken care of. The chaps eventually scooped up the remnants. It quickly became apparent that Dr. Stan, in juggernaut mode, would handle every scrap. 
The well-Seasoned, well-Spiced Chapli was as good as it gets, stunning in fact. OK, it is, in effect, a Chicken Burger, but let’s not go there. Chapli is why the Hector tends to come to 
The Fish Pakora was as delightful as ever. Quality Haddock in a Spicy batter. More-ish. Had we asked for more, more would have arrived. We had to manage all we had.
The plate of Seekh Kebab had a lighter one on top. This was definitely Chicken leaving one to conclude the darker ones could have been Lamb. No prizes for guessing which version arrived on Hector’s plate. Dr. Stan’s go-to Starter, enjoyed by all, though not as Spicy as the Chapli. 
Jim mentioned a friend, not present, who would love this. David reckoned the Oil might be an issue. The separating Oil is all part of the experience. With minimal Masala, this takes – Curry – to a different dimension. We took it as read that the Meat would be giving back way more Flavour than a Mainstream Curry House. 
I noted the presence of Tomato Skins in the Masala Mash, so much for the online recipes which have one spend time trying to remove them. 
Our karahi had a mix Lamb Chops and boneless Lamb. The Sucky Bones were along the table. Lamb Chops, not the Tandoori version, cooked for Curry, a treat. Soft, succulent Meat, yet chewing required. The pleasure I had missed having had Vegetable Curry, various, for four consecutive days on 
Five substantial Chapattis had been served. I took but a scrap being here for Curry, not Bread. 
Aubergine and Potato in a Masala Mash, here the mandatory Oil was also separating. I’ll keep the Potato review for a moment, the mushy Eggplant was the focal point of this Dish. I was certain that I was getting Citrus from this, but on consulting my fellow diners, there was no – harrumph. So it goes.
The Potato defied belief. Totally saturated. Whilst the Goshat Karahi had the unique – 
Apart from Dr. Stan who was still ploughing his way, we were replete. In time, what looked as though it could become Takeaway, was divvied out. Once upon a time, the Order would have been three kilos between six, two between five, ample. 
Dr. Stan – Excellent meal with tasty kebab and (fish) pakora starters followed by juicy lamb chops cooked with a sublime blend of spices.
comprising cauliflower and potatoes and an aubergine dish. Chapattis completed the meal. The lamb was full of flavour something other places can’t do. The oil at the bottom was just as special and only my heart stopped me having more. And as Hector has said before the vegetable dishes had the special 
Coconut Grove is closed for renovation, please use the free shuttle from Douglas Road – has been announced on every train leaving every Metro station during our days in Miami FL, regardless of direction of travel. It was somewhat ironic therefore when two major sources claimed that Bombay Darbar (2901 Florida Ave., Miami, FL 33133, USA) in Coconut Grove was the outstanding place in Miami for Curry. 
Arriving at Bombay Darbar, in this pleasant Miami suburb, at 13.00, we were offered a table in the covered terrace where most diners were sat, or inside. After the walk, cooling down was necessary. 
The Thali lunch menu was quickly dismissed, if I’m going to review a Curry, let’s have the full Bhuna. 
Other than Lamb Chops Masala ($34.95), there was no sign of Meat served on-the-bone. No Goat Curry either which tends to be served this way across the 
Two halves of a Poppadom, the preferrred type with embedded Cumin Seeds, a Salsa, and what I took to be the standard 
What a bowlful! Marg’s intended snack was way more than she had imagined. We are in – America! – where people often – box – their leftovers for Takeaway. 
A large piece of salmon was the highlight of the dish. Had a small piece of cold Naan bread with garlic. Plenty of different green leaves made up the salad with flakes of almonds, cranberries, crumbled goats cheese on the top. Plenty of cucumber with chopped, small tomatoes. A big chew, but very enjoyable. 
The standard sized handi had Meat protruding through the blended, Shorva-esque, Masala. A Soupy Curry with Ginger Strips atop, and no sign of Fresh Herbs.
The large pieces of Lamb reached a count of double figures. A knife would have to be employed to manage these, a worthy portion of Meat. 
The Spice Level impressed, a decent kick, never going to test, but as asked for. The Seasoning stood out by its absence. This was not going to be a – Karrah! – experience. 
The Flavour from the Masala was oh-so familiar. My suspicions at 
The Aftermath
Today is the fifteenth anniversary of the launch of Curry-Heute, Marg had a card commissioned to commemorate the date. I don’t know who the freeloaders are. 
David Cross, violinist, was once a member of King Crimson (UK).
The headline act – Neal Morse & The Resonance (USA) – was more than worth the very modest admission price. Hector had breakfast adjacent to Neal Morse in Rotherham back in the late 1990s when Spock’s Beard (USA) played their first ever UK gig at the Classic Rock Society. Howard, Marg and Hector saw the current line-up of Spock’s Beard last year in Glasgow, one Morse brother maintains. 
Boarding a cruise liner turned out to be no different than the typical airport experience, and people slag off budget airlines when they feel as if they are treated like cattle. 
As The Friends of Hector are well aware, boats are not my thing. Once upon a time, the first wave outside of Port Ellen (Islay) harbour had me leaning over the side. How much I would eat in the coming days was therefore an unknown. With a doom laden attitude, the Buffet was approached. A Burger, well why not, I’m in – America (sic). Then I spotted the – Asian Section. The Paneer was way too risky, even on dry land. For Hector, Cheese and heat is not a good combination. Daal and Gajar Mutter would do nicely. 
The Daal confirmed the efficacy of Chef’s skills, the Peas and Carrots blew me away. The latter had a kick and an impressive depth of Flavour. I knew already that this trip belonged in 
Having checked-in at our muster point we continued our tour of the ship. Magic Pie (Norge) had kicked off the music in the main Stardust Theatre on Decks 6/7. We stood with a group on one of the two viewing platforms at the upper rear of the theatre. The SLR was not coping at this distance. I have one Magic Pie album – The Suffering Joy – played oft, yet today I had totally forgotten this. Today’s music, too fast and unemotional for the Hector. Back to Deck 11 then up the outside stairs to Deck 12. From here, we had an excellent view of the Pool Stage on Deck 11. 
The long established Saga (Canada) by whom the Hector had some albums on tape before a recent clear out, would be the – sail away – band. Tales were told of founding member Jim Crichton being wheeled on to the ship. This was hard to believe given his jumping around the stage, but we too would later see him wheeled from the dining room. 
Rick Wakeman, former member of The Strawbs (UK) and Yes (UK) at 18.00, was our first big act. He came on stage promptly. Our seats were second row balcony, stage left, no complaints here. One could have paid less for a restricted view, no way, Pedro.
Adam Wakeman, yes, son of Rick, aka Milton Keanes, keep up, presented this evening as a trad jazz trio playing – the original – versions of early Black Sabbath songs. Milton claims to have written the music in the late 1960s, went into a coma, and on recovering, discovered that – they – had stolen his material and made £millions. 
Today, every act was allocated an hour in which to perform their set, no more. At 23.00, back down on Deck 8 in the bar overlooking the Atrium stage, it was declared to be – Bier o’clock. A long day.
Marg did not recognise that the Neal Morse on stage today was the same chap she had seen two nights previously. Ross Jennings is the lead vocalist in Haken (UK), not a band that floats my boat, but yes, he can sing. 
Rajma 
forgiven.
No bass player, Jon Courtney, the lead vocalist and second guitar, was taking care of this via the keyboard he otherwise barely touched. Chlo
Beardfish (Sverige) had started their set at the Spinnaker at 15.45. Located on – 12 forward, we managed to take in the final minutes. Such was their popularity, it was standing room only at the back. Restricted view, I could only see two members. Song For Beating Hearts – had been purchased as a taster, a fine album. The sounds being created on stage did not match this, too harsh again, not enough – space. 
Dum Aloo and Bhindi Masala, more vegetables. Vegetable Rice with the Flavours of east of 
Dum Aloo
Arriving at the Pool Stage a good half hour early, there were no empty seats. We found a space on what would otherwise be the actual pool edge. IQ were due on at 21.00, the sound check had to be done with the audience present, the wind was howling. Don’t listen to this – advised Mike Holmes, guitar.
Frequency, Sacred Sound, Subterranea, Guiding Light, The Wake, The Darkest Hour, Ten Million Demons.
Seeing one of your favourite bands is one thing. Seeing another fifteen minutes later is something else. Riverside were starting at 22.15 in the Stardust Theatre, the green badge holders getting to see them first. This means there’s no guarantee of seeing them twice.
It was tres cool knowing exactly where we were sitting. Bon soir – to the French couple to my left. They had recently been to Glasgow to see Fish’s final show. Riverside are only performing twice this year, on this cruise, then that’s it for 2025. Mariusz Duda, bass, lead vocals, composer, genius, was not in a good place for the first half of the set. His usual aura was missing, minimal interaction. OK, getting through the songs is one thing, was it the audience? Playing to a crowd of pensioners must be strange. Riverside have worked their way up the bill on CTTE, they know the score. 
The set was a mix of older material, including two longer songs, the latest album ID Entity, and as usual, nothing from from the pre-Covid – Wasteland. I know not why they stopped playing songs from what is decidedly their best album. 
Second Life Syndrome, Out Of Myself, Hyperactive, Egoist Hedonist, Big Tech Brother, Friend Or Foe?, Escalator Shrine, The Curtain Falls. 
The music carried them through, what an amazing evening. At 23.15, it was declared to be – Bier o’clock. The late night Prog Karaoke was underway in the Atrium. People should be told that they cannot sing, but when you turn up with your own Rickenbacker bass and insist on murdering – Rush – ah well.
There was a quick breakfast before going ashore. Two chaps were standing at the Buffet having a chat, Peter Nickolls (IQ) and Nick Barrett (Pendragon). The Hector captured the moment.
Before music comes lunch, more Curry! Congratulations to all for getting this far. 
The Hector has written oft of his disdain for those who order Prawn Curry. A waste of good Prawns, a waste of money. When they are presented in a near limitless scenario, and I include a further sample photo from another section, what is the fuss? Why charge extra? Anyway, I did not abuse the sacred Prawn.
Daal Palak
Marg spotted that her all time Prog hero: Clive Nolan, keyboard player for Pendragon, also composer for Arena, was at the adjacent table on the poop deck. Not for the first time, their photo together.
Big Big Train, the green badge show in the Stardust Theatre at 14.15. A British band, but like Trigger’s broom, so many changes in personnel, are they the same band? Gregory Spawton on bass, to the best of my understanding, is the only surviving founding member. The multi-talented vocalist and musician, Alberto Bravin (Italia) first appeared in these pages back in 2018 when Steve and Hector went to 
Marg and Hector saw Big Big Train with this line-up in Edinburgh thereafter. Nick D’Virgilio of Spock’s Beard fame has also found his way into the band. Then add Rikard Sj
Again, great seats. Indigo (Pure) may well be Pendragon’s most accomplished song, part of this was the warm up, then they soon launched the set. With Clive Nolan on keyboards, hidden under his cap, not a great photo opperchancity. 
This Green and Pleasant Land was followed by 360
The highly recognisable Paintbox was followed by the uptempo Stargazing, then Water. How fitting as we sailed away from the Dominican Republic. 
In conversation with a chap later, he expressed his opinion that Pendragon had gotten their opening set wrong, too much noodling. The reality, Nick Barrett performs every song as he wrote it then recorded it in the studio. Extended improvisations are not his style.
Gazpacho were due on the Pool Stage at 19.15. A name I have been aware of for many years but had not taken the plunge. Their latest album – Fireworker – whose title track opened the set, was duly purchased and will be waiting at Hector’s House on our return. Jan-Henrik Ohme’s vocals are clear, distinctive, almost Shatneresque in delivery. When it was his time to deliver, he commanded the stage. 
Lots of space in the music and between the vocal lines. Once again, this is how the Hector likes his prog. Marg too was captivated. Jon-Arne Vilbo on lead guitar was ably accompanied by Mikael Kr
Jan-Henrik described the difficulty in choosing a selection of their songs to fit into an hour. Their albums are all concept in nature, to be listened to in their entirety, alpha to omega. Indeed, that which separates those of us who purchase albums as opposed to listening to radio play. 
Steven Wilson’s backing band featuring: Nick Beggs (bass) once of Kajagoogoo, Craig Blundell (drums) and Adam Holzmann (keyboards) reportedly started jamming together during SW rehearsals. The result was a three way collaboration by t-Internet and the release of CDs under the name – Trifecta. They had never performed their material live until tonight at the Spinnaker. 
Nick announced that tonight there was a fourth member – Brenda – a computer, AI on stage. Sounding somewhat like Marvin from Hitch-hikers Guide To The Galaxy, there was a series of derogatory introductions and comments between songs. 
The Aristocrats, instrumental, actually mental in parts, with the animal noises thrown in. Tonight was about ducks. Fortunately having bought their recent opus – Duck – I was in on the joke. 
With the comfort of the theatre seats, an enjoyable set, but elsewhere on the ship, maybe not. 
Today’s highlights would be a repeat of two days ago, IQ and Riverside, the latter not guaranteed. As we left the Garden Cafe at the end of breakfast, so Michal Lapaj, keyboard player of Riverside, was sitting chatting. I asked if he had a magic stick that would guarantee my access to the Stardust Theatre – orange show. Nope. Marg was not happy with me asking, but Steve Hackett did apologise from the stage that he had commandeered some of the extra places for his chosen few. So, it was possible.
IQ, the Stardust Theatre at high noon. With great seats mid-auditorium, all was set. By now I had worked out that if my indoor SLR photos were all out of focus, it was time to try manual focusing. Modest results but at least something to post. 
Frequency (again), Shallow Bay, Far From Here, Closer, Leap Of Faith, The Road Of Bones, Headlong. Having played nothing from my favourite IQ album – Ever – at 
The Daal was the gentle Curry this afternoon. The Mushroom Masala was the business. Look at the modest portions, I may be eating three times a day, but am certainly not pigging out. I’m still surprised to be eating at all. 
The word on the blurb was that if one went to the restaurant adjacent to the Stardust Theatre one hour before a gig of the opposite colour, wristbands would be issued on a first come, first served basis. Time to join the queue. This was well organised. A lady came past and told us all to remain where we were. Another lady arrived with numbered wristbands, sixty of them, Marg and I were 30 and 31. We were then told to go away and come back just before the start of the gig. Perfect, there was ice-cream to be had.
Trifecta were on at the Pool Stage. At least today we could see them. We didn’t hang about.
The same set as two days ago, this time with a bit more enthusiasm. Yet, Mariusz had to announce before the final song – The Curtain Falls – that after this, they would be taking a break. 
Whenever, wherever, they return, the Hector will be there. So far I have seen them in 
Later, in conversation with someone known to Graham, he reckoned that time could be called on the band. There has been a fall out. Piotr Grudzinski (drums) owns the name Riverside, despite the music being predominantly written by Mariusz. So it goes. There’s always Lunatic Soul. 
I have been enjoying the former’s Charcoal Grace album, the title track being a mere twenty four minutes. This 
Sapien, another track from Fireworker, plus three more more from Tick Tock made up four of the seven songs performed. The more intimate setting may have suited the band, but we were all in agreement, the Spinnaker was the poorest venue. 
Robert Fripp
We had to cut our visit short, Robert Fripp (King Crimson, UK) & David Singleton, were due on stage in the Stardust Theatre at 18.15. I had heard people say – they perform old stuff, i.e. from – Court Of The Crimson King. I was not prepared for what awaited. A screen mid stage was showing a film, out-takes from a South American King Crimson show in which Craig Blundell was one of three drummers. The front of the stage had two chairs set up for a Q&A. Was this it, the headline act on the ship?
Gobi Korma
Karmakanic (Sverige) had been brought to or attention, in essence a solo project by Jonas Reingold, of whom I reminded Marg yet again, that she had seen with The Flower Kings in Langbank many moons ago. Performing at the Atrium at 20.15, it was a case of find a gap by the time we got back down to Deck 7. 
One would think that that would be that for the night, but no, Saga were scheduled for midnight at the Stardust Theatre. Despite not being a colour coded show, we took our usual seats in the balcony then moved two left to where the French couple normally sit. 
For those who worship the sun, or like beaches and swimming, Great Stirrup Cay might be interesting. Otherwise, there is nothing there. We knew we had to be back on board in time for Pendragon at 15.00. Instead, having been ashore for less than one hour, we joined the queue to get back in time for Pure Reason Revolution’s noon show, again at the Pool Stage.
With no seats front of stage, we returned to our Saga vantage point on Deck 8. Another varied and interesting set, this young band have talent. 
Unfortunately, the heat got to the laptop, the keyboards crashed. A block of ice was part of the cure. The hiatus did mean dropping two songs. Should they come to Glasgow, we shall attend, sporting Cruise To The Edge t-shirts, of course.
Carrots, Peas and Sweetcorn, no Spice had been harmed in their creation. The Bhaji concept had been borrowed. 
From the opening chord, I whispered in Marg’s ear – If I were the wind, and you were the rain. It had to be, what else could open this set? 
Glasgow
Being the last day, there was the sense of a bit more time available, a story or two. Nick told of a previous cruise with the ship rolling. Steve Howe’s (Yes) pedal steel guitar entered and exited stage right of its own free will. Nick reckoned that Steve could have played it without moving his hand. 
All those present must have loved this show, the intimacy, the sound was perfect. With the girls on backing vocals, King of the Castle was given its true studio reproduction. There is another Pendragon Weekend later this year, alas Marg and Hector have other commitments. Next year.
Thereafter we took in a bit more of 
The scheduled big ending was nigh, Steve Hackett at the Stardust Theatre, the green show at 18.30. Changing decks, I encountered Randy McStine mid photo-shoot. Well, why not?
Four songs from Steve Hackett’s solo albums kicked things off: People of the Smoke, Circo Inferno, The Devil’s Cathedral then the end section of Shadow of the Hierophant, the Genesis track that never was. Then we were down to business. 
The Lamb Lies Down on Broadway, Fly on a Windshield, Cuckoo Cocoon, Carpet Crawlers, The Chamber of 32 Doors, Lilywhite Lilith, It, then the grand ending: Firth of Fifth, and Los Endos. 
I had never seen Fly on a Windshield performed live before, an emotional moment. Thankfully it segued into Broadway Melody of 1974 else there would have been shouting from row two of the balcony.
It – IMHO is the worst possible ending to any double album. It sounds as though Genesis had simply run out of ideas. Side four of – Lamb – has a lot of noise on it. An album that peters out. The jazzy bit that is now part of Los Endos, I can do without. And just in case nobody had seen enough of Craig Blundell, he was permitted a drum solo. Marg will know him next time. 
Tonight, no Curry, instead we went to the Grand Pacific dining room on Deck 6. Table cloths, a la carte, waiters, a bottle of wine even, but they didn’t have my first choice of red. We both had the Fish. Red wine with Fish, well if one dines in shorts and a Pendragon t-shirt, who cares? 
Moon Safari, the tallest chaps on the ship, entertaining, musical, but I’ll need to give them another listen before deciding to invest. Their set certainly had its moments. Was gig fatigue setting in? At the end of their set, all five stood and sang a cappella. 
We had missed a thunderstorm. Having avoided the gangway after Moon Safari and taken the lift back to Deck 7, we had failed to note that the Pool Stage had been abandoned. Instead of the usual late night karaoke-stye bands setting up, the multinational TEMIC were setting up in the Atrium.
TEMIC a byproduct, partially, of Mike Portnoy’s (Dream Theater, Transatlantic) touring band: Eric Gillette, guitar (Neal Morse Band), Diego Tejeida (Haken) on keyboards. 
It was Bier o’clock and the music had come to us. Bier with Graham was taking priority, and so TEMIC were not given the full attention they surely deserved. There was enough seen and heard to accept that this is another band worthy of investigation. 
Cruise To The Edge, never heard of it? You have now. Imagine a five day cruise out of Miami featuring some twenty plus, Progressive Rock acts. Three of them: 
Given the Hector’s propensity of parting with his dinner on a boat/ship of any size, hopefully today’s will not be the last Curry in Florida. This afternoon Marg and Hector found themselves taking in the art deco wonder that is Miami Beach. Having arrived in Miami last night, and allowing for the ongoing five hour time difference with the UK, by 14.05 the body clock was screaming – food! 
Akash Miami Beach (
A couple arrived as I took the exterior photo, the only other diners in this lunchtime shift. Taking the window table in the corner, we could survey and appreciate the shining bright, art deco interior. The attentive waiters brought the menu and a bottle of much needed chilled water. To this I would add a can of my favourite ginger ale ($3.00). 28
On asking the waiter if he was familiar with the term – Desi – this drew a blank. I didn’t try – Apna. It was clear that Akash Miami Beach was going to be as Mainstream as – Mainstream – can be. I was directed to Akash Curry, – Hot. 
The very definition of a – Soupy Curry – is manifested here. But if one is going to manage all this Rice, one needs copious Masala. Decanting the Meat, there was enough here to satisfy. As I have found to be the US norm, Goat Curry tends to be served on-the-bone. I believe I had made the best Curry choice at Akash Miami Beach. 
The Spice Level was certainly above – medium. OK, I’ll accept it was – Hot, but not challenging, don’t need that. The Seasoning was well within acceptable parameters. Tender Meat, as well cooked as Goat can be in a Curry. Apart from the – Soupiness – positive boxes were being ticked. 
I feel as though I’m in 
Damn right I did, I know what the next week holds, the avoidance of ubiquitous burgers and cheese. The culture where Pizza is considered is considered a treat. This Curry should maintain the Hector’s sanity until dry land is once again reached.
The Hector could not help but smile. Once in a while, Marg orders the antithesis of what she knows to be proper Curry. However, her presence does permit the coverage of the bland and creamy. Was last year’s 
Behold, a bowl of Yellow Creaminess. Ample solids were in there, they had to be fished out. Marg found that the Fish, type unknown, flaked easily thus creating a more familiar Texture. A Soupçon was sampled, the self-fulfilling prophecy. It was Marg who had to eat this Dessert Curry. 
I knew this would be a sweeter dish to my usual, but fancied something different. There were some large and smaller pieces of white fish in a very yellow, mango sauce. I had asked for medium spice and there was a small kick to the dish.
The Bill
For some time, the plan has been to visit 
The young waitress greeted and directed me towards the far wall. For a change, I chose the table nearer the bar, not my usual window spot. The 
Cauliflower Potato Green (£9.50) and a Side portion of Dal Makhani (£6.95) should be quite a plateful. I saw enough Rice this week at 
Greens – turned out to be Peas, now we know – Aloo Gobi Mutter. The Minimal and Thick Masala Mash was as hoped for. Ginger Strips topped the melange, a whole Cherry Tomato had been cooked in. With multiple plates, I had to decant to the warmed dinner plate. On licking the spoon, oh, there’s Spice here. 
Brown Lentils and Beans were smothered by the Creamy Dal Masala. The portion, a Side, was served in the same bowl in which the Rice is served at 
Dipping the Bread in the Dal revealed a Dry, Earthy Flavour, Nothing too powerful, just a pleasant accompaniment to what was the main event here.
The final afternoon of this short break in 
Alas, – friends – was actually singular, behold, Herr Madhu Battra, Mein Host, reportedly in 
Having taken our seats, the waiter/manager directed us to the sofa, the large group had just paid up and were drifting out. The furniture was restored to its original layout, surfaces wiped, a spacious corner booth made available. 
The Desi section is highlighted. Home-style Fish Curry with Bone (€19.90) suggests an alternative to the 
Where was Steve? Steve has a history of turning up for Curry after advising that he wouldn’t. At 13.10, a text, Steve was at the wrong 
With accompanying Basmati, there was no need for Bread. Drinks were sorted. Clive and Maggie would eventually have three glasses of Mango Lassi (€4.00) between them, whilst Marg and Hector shared a 0.75l bottle of Sparkling Water (€7.50). 
Chicken Hakka Noodles, aka, Desi Chow Mein, is a stir-fry, most certainly not a Curry. The Noodles were shrouded in the sauce as in any decent Pasta dish. Soya and Vinegar are key ingredients of the sauce. Marg:
… 
I believe this must have been the base for Hector’s 
The thin, blended Masala was approaching – Shorva. A reddish-brown Masala with an Oily sheen, this was Classic Curry. Eight large pieces of Mutton, mostly on-the-bone, were arranged on a manageable quantity of Rice. A Sucky Bone confirmed the cut of the Meat, leg, plus some ribs would be encountered also. A piece of Cinnamon Bark was set aside, the Desi efficacy now confirmed. 
Licking the spoon revealed a sharp level of Spiciness, enough, Maggie made no negative comment. Indeed, this Curry was unquestionably to her liking. 
Lollipops – was the only clue given on Monday as to what this Dish could be. The presentation took us by surprise. What might have been Chicken Drumsticks with foil at the end were encrusted in what was either Batter or Breadcrumbs. Close up, Breadcrumbs looked more likely, the added Spices stood out. This was a departure from the norm. 
With Coconut and a single Pomegranate Seed, a fine amuse-bouche on which to end. 
A return in November, ceteris paribus, was promised. Now to work on Dr. Stan who left 
Fisch Chettinad, as served in 
There are six of us in 
On their arrival, the front seating area at 
Clive and Maggie were enjoying glasses of Mango Lassi (€4.00) as we arrived. Clive ordered another as Marg added Sparkling Water (€3.00) and the Hector two bottles of Fizzy Orange (€4.00). 
The handi was piled high with a sight not seen for some years, the sought after Dry Chettinad, closer to – stir-fry – than any other interpretation of this Curry. The aroma was decidedly – South Indian. Decanting the Fish, large pieces, there was lots of it. Seelachstfilet (Pollock) is on the menu elsewhere, one assumes the same Fish maintains. 
With the – Masala – so Dry and Thick, it was certainly Herb-rich. We discussed Parsley versus Coriander, possibly even Curry Leaf. The Gritty Texture, which had been markedly missing in the 
We were sitting in the back room of the restaurant. My dish was full of succulent fish covered with tasty spices with a wonderful sauce. The flavours burst in my mouth and I was delighted with the overall taste. A good kick and although I took some plain rice, I quickly ordered a Roti and it arrived with butter dripping from it. This fresh bread enhanced my enjoyment of the whole dish. I prefer bread to rice. I took my time to enjoy this wonderful dish. Clive:
The Aftermath
Karahi Gosht & Spinach (£15.00), Dr. Stan and Chapatti John have been ordering this creation continuously for many years at 
Far from cremated, and certainly not – well done – as was specifically asked for, the four Lamb Chops still enticed. Two each, such restraint. Juicy, succulent, and a big – kick. Did I say – not to be missed?
The accompanying Chilli Sauce added a further diversion. Not – Special Sauce – as waiters have described it on recent visits. The Hector was allocated the single slice of Tomato, Marg took care of the other – Salad – components and offered these words:. 
Four pieces, OK, each could be halved. It’s all about the batter. Spicy – was heard. Fish Pakora surely remains the ultimate, after the standard Vegetable variety. 
Topped with Coriander and featuring a generous wedge of Lemon, this was the classic Dry 
The Herb-rich 
A lighter Masala, less Herb, standard fayre in comparison to the above. Otherwise, the same Curry, or was it?
When Marg reached her limit, the Hector, and subsequently James, were keen to reduce the surplus. Karahi Gosht, the most sacred Curry, Desi Korma aside. Hector’s Soupçon revealed a somewhat – tame – experience after the Herb-rich version. Marg’s account of the meal:
Chicken Curry, really. People persist. As a variation on Chicken Tikka Masala goes, this appeared to be a decent incarnation. Boneless Chicken, large pieces, certainly a decent portion. The Blended Masala was a significant departure from the above, Curry, not Karahi. 
There were numerous, audible, positive remarks to my right. A Curry very much enjoyed, but surely the difference between this and Marg’s Karahi Gosht was realised?
The Hector has witnessed many a person order Prawn Curry, the song remains the same – why? As is recorded in these pages, around half of those who do so, are disappointed. Donna was quick to remark on the – Soupy – nature of what sat before her.
One may wonder if this would make a difference. 
The Bill
Monday Curry with Marg, this could almost be regarded as semi-regular. It also means the car is involved, so what better opperchancity to return to 
13.30, two customers were at the counter watching as quite a large Takeaway was being assembled by Zahir, Mein Host. This provided the opperchancity to study and record the surprisingly massive array of food on display. 
The Starters were in the open, along the top of the counter. The Samosas looked massive. 
On the left of the covered shelf, Aloo Gosht (£7.50), Keema Karelay (£7.50) and an interesting looking Chicken Dish were the Meat options. 
Thereafter, a Mix Vegetable Curry (£5.00) with Aubergine prominent and two different Daal (£4.00). All great value, there has been no price increase since I was last here in August for 
Marg declared that she was having the mysterious Chicken Curry. Zahir said it was – Korma (£7.00).
Boneless Chicken, brown Meat, so likely to be – thigh. Chicken Breast most certainly is not for Curry, yet for simplicity that is what I used in my lessons all those years ago. 
The Oily Brown Meat was full of Flavour, the Seasoning was remarkable. I have rarely tasted Chicken this good. The Spice would build to a sensible level, no complaints from Marg.
Marg’s verdict:
