Crawley – Taj Mahal – The Missing Link

Lord Clive of Crawley has spoken about the Taj Mahal (2-4 High St, Crawley, West Sussex RH10 1BJ, England) many times, but has never suggested we visit. Founded in 1969, Taj Mahal is Crawley‘s Oldest Curry House. Clive talks of the halcyon days when it was excellent, but fears it has lost its mojo in recent times. Or is it more likely that such established venues do not maintain a Contemporary Menu and have not evolved as our collective palates have?
Hector had one hour between leaving the Travelodge and embarking for Gatwick. Taj Mahal opened at Noon, Hector entered the premises at 11.59. It’s as if this was thought through. Until 11.30 I was heading for The Downsman, which is without doubt Crawley’s Finest Curry House, but this would have involved two taxis. Taj Mahal is minutes from the perpetual No. 10 Bus. Fairs saved in taxis should cover the cost of the Curry. Logical.
Two waiters greeted the Hector on entry, one was heard again but never seen. As I studied The Menu a major argument broke out between The two chaps, this was taken to a side room. The Waiter who served had fortunately recovered his composure and took the order. Meanwhile the loud discussion was continued in the kitchen. For the second day in a row – noises-off. At least today I knew there was actually somebody else in the kitchen. Hector does not claim to be a – cunning linguist – however, the mother tongue of those involved did not sound like any language Hector has previously been exposed to.

Lamb Achari (£10.95) was described as – A fairly hot and tangy curry with pickling spices. A Mushroom Rice (£3.25) should be the safe accompaniment. The drink of choice was brought quickly, a 0.75l Bottle of Sparkling Water. A Big Bottle, for one person, I wondered how much this would cost? I soon discovered that 750ml is a better size than the normal 330 – 500ml Bottles, Quaffable.
A third chap was hanging about, not involved in the previous disturbance, his jacket remained on for some ten minutes. Would he stay or would he go? It’s not often one has a cabaret this early in the day. He stayed, the jacket came off.

The décor of the Taj Mahal is probably nothing like what it was back in 1969. Bright, modern with tablecloths, I couldn’t wait to spill something. The premises were large and had tables on different levels around the main raised floor area. No space had been lost. A full Bar was located at the entrance. It was the roof supports between me and the – cabaret – that prevented me seeing more. By 12.20 The Curry was presented, all was calm, however the two remaining chaps kept staring out to the street. Was the source of annoyance outside? Across the street somebody had just set up an xmas tree market. December 1st. No time to lose. 

Lamb AchariThe Lamb Achari looked typically – Mainstream – Meat in a copious Masala. The Masala had a consistency that was too Thick to be called – Soup, not bad, though the Colour was suspicious. Spooning the Lamb on to the adequate, and thankfully not excessive, portion of Mushroom Rice, I counted ten pieces of Lamb. The majority were Substantial, some would have to be halved. This was a lot of Lamb. The Lamb was Tender and of perfect consistency, chewing required, but in no way was this Tough Meat, better this than the Pulp one receives at times. The lack of Seasoning was the next parameter to be reckoned with, fortunately the – kick – made up for this. The anticipated Tang was there, just. I have had more Potent Acharis served, there was no sign of Lime Pickle or similar. A solitary Dark Red Chilli was discovered, with the Topping of Fresh Curry Leaves this immediately made me conclude that this was a South Indian Achari... Does such a thing exist?
The Waiter approached to ask the Customary Question:
A great kick – was my staccato statement. Hector was busy, eating his Curry. The brow had to be mopped. This was in no way outstanding, but there was little to criticise, a Very Good Mainstream Curry.

The Bill
£20.02. Definitely on the high side. How much was the Sparkling Water – £4.00. Then I spotted it – Service Charge – £1.82. No Tip was given today, why would you?

The Aftermath
The new waiter came to collect the funds, miraculously I had exact amount. I complemented the large portion – That was a lot of Meat. He assured me that eight to nine pieces is their standard portion.
The Chocolates were declined, the Calling Card offered.
Is this a discount card?
Now that’s a first. Maybe I should have the next generation of Calling Card have – 10% Discount – emblazoned on it? He promised to give it to his Boss. Perhaps that was the mature chap, behind the Bar, that I bade farewell to as I departed.