It feels like ten hours since I was last here. Sheesh Mahal (6 St. Thomas’ Road, Bradford, BD1 2RW) opens early and closes late. Taj, Mein Host, assured me last night that there would be Fish, but suggested I arrive nearer noon than 11.00 to give Sadaqat time to arrive. Steve and Hector walked up from Forster Square Travelodge and arrived just before Noon, the neon sign said – Open.
Sadaqat was probably not expecting customers this early. Hands were shaken, the welcome was warm, Fish was reconfirmed. Menus were brought, this was Steve’s first visit to the Sheesh Mahal . Lamb Methi would be Steve’s choice. Given the space invaders last night, I thought I had better spell put my preferences. It is rare that Sadaqat takes my order, normally he has Something Special for me to try.
Fish Methi, Spicy, and no Capsicum.
Steve asked for his Lamb Methi to be Spicy and without Capsicum too. Who has ever heard of someone ordering – Extra Capsicum? The Curry-Heute Campaign appears to be having a modest effect.
Poppadoms and Dips were provided as ever. The Raita was particularly tasty, the Lime 
Pickle looked a bit different, Red Bits, and was astonishing. What a Kick, what a Salt content, back-off, it’s early.
A Solitary Chapatti arrived First
You’ve never had a Chapatti as Fresh as this – claimed Sadaqat. Indeed, this was very Light and Fluffy. He piled more on. As we all know by now, up to three Chapattis, Rice or Naan is inclusive.
Lamb Methi
*
Steve: I liked Sadaqat very much, a very warm welcome. The Curry was of a very high standard. There was an intensity of flavour which grew. The Meat was of great quality, the Bread was Fantastic.
Fish Methi
There’s Dry and there’s Dry. This was Dry, seriously Dry. There was no Masala, instead the Flakes of Fish were mixed in with the Spices and Herbs to great effect. There is never a question of Fish Curry being under-seasoned. The combination of Fish and Methi is exactly what I had in mind. This was an aggressively Spiced, very Tasty Curry. Perfect to set up the rest of the day. A Chapatti and a half is usually what I manage, these were so light I probably devoured at least two. A new standard has been set.
The Bill
£14.80. Yes, this was for us both. Bradford Prices.
The Aftermath
There was mention of a possibility of Hector being given a Sheesh Mahal polo-shirt. I shall be back on December 30, hint!
Neil was waiting for us at Bradford Interchange. The train to Huddersfield was a hoot, how can it take so long to go such a short distance? Brighouse? Did I ever tell the story of my first Ale in Brighouse?