Bradford – The International – Khalid & Ali on Top Form

The clear blue skies have given way to the approach of Storm Doris, did we have Storm Bert? Ricky, The Man from Bradford, was persuaded to invest in a taxi rather than a late night bus to take himself and Dr. Stan back to his Suburban Domicile. This meant the three of us could enjoy Bradford Curry, for Hector, the second time today. And so it shall continue, Fish and Vegetables may eventually have to give relief from Lamb.

Our Taxi Driver had never heard of The International (40-42 Morley Street, Bradford, BD7 1BA), he was Shipley based. When I asked where he dines, Ricky too showed interest, we are always looking to find New Venues. There are so many in the Bradford Hinterland, we cannot possibly get around them all and visit the tried and tested. Our Driver had no new information about Curry Venues.

The Young Maitre D was sitting beside the counter, he stood in recognition of those who were entering. Ali, one of the two long established Waiters came bounding from the rear of the Restaurant. He summoned his colleague – Khalid. They were happy to see us/me.

You’re known here – remarked Ricky. Indeed, Hector has been dining at The International for twenty one years, tonight is also visit twenty one since the birth of Curry-Heute. It is here, Hector had his Bestest Curry of all time back in September 2011 – Lamb Karahi Methi.

We chose a table which left Dr. Stan blocking the passage, and so moved further in. The Menu has not changed in years, still the same A3 laminate. This means the prices have not changed either.

Dr. Stan declared he was having Keema Chana Potato Balti (£8.20), wtf? Ricky never orders the same as Hector, tonight it was Lamb and Spinach Balti (£7.90). For comparison purposes, it was the same as at the Sheesh Mahal earlier today for Hector – Lamb Desi (£10.00). Medium to Hot – was the agreed Spice Level. As is the custom in the Best of Bradford Curry Houses, Bread is inclusive. Dr. Stan took the three Chapattis option, Hector followed Ricky and chose Naan. I had two Chapattis at Lunchtime.

Poppadoms and Dips were placed on the table, not much of this was eaten. I have reached the stage of taking them or leaving them, but most certainly, never paying for them.

Around 23.00, our closest Diners had young kids out with them. They left not long after we sat down. The place was quiet, it is a Wednesday evening. Ali always had a beaming smile and a bit of banter each time he passed us. He was genuinely happy to see us.

Two Buckets – One Karahi

They ordered Balti, they were severed Balti. Neither Dr. Stan or Ricky approved of the Bucket in which their choices were presented, more-so when I was served the most massive looking Karahi for one ever. It was difficult to tell the respective quantities, again, I was certain I had the Largest Portion. The Lamb Desi was on-the-bone and looked Magnificent.

I don’t think they’re doing themselves any favours – said Dr. Stan about his – Bucket.

But you ordered a Balti – was Hector’s reply.

Keema Chana Potato Balti

Dr. Stan ate his Keema Chana Potato Balti in near silence. The customary – Mmmm – was anticipated, not this evening.

How is it? – I asked.

It’s alright.

Would you like to say any more?

No.

Had Ricky ordered Plain Naans because variants would have been charged for? The Naans were Large, more than one person would eat but not too silly. They were Thin, Flat and not particularly appetising.  Paratha or Chapattis for Hector next time.

Lamb and Spinach Balti

The Lamb and Spinach Balti was strewn with the Dreaded Capsicum. Ricky was not bothered.

How much Capsicum have you got in there? I had to ask.

As good as usual – was Ricky’s eventual response. In the Premier League of Bradford, and has been for a long time. I enjoyed that.

*

Lamb Desi

The Meat count was fifteen pieces or more. The Tender Lamb is cut smaller in Bradford than around the UK, still, this was a mass of Meat and on-the-bone. One Large Green Chilli sat atop the Thick Masala, eaten in two halves when a little extra Kick was required. Chopped Green Chillies were mixed through the Masala, the Spice Level was right up there but still within acceptable parameters. A bit more Seasoning and Hector would have been in raptures. Still, it was good to be back.

The Bill

£27.50. This included a charge of £1.50 for Poppadoms and Dips. Ali was called over and this was removed.

£26.00. Ali blamed Khalid.

The Aftermath

A taxi took Dr. Stan and Ricky back to the Suburban Domicile. Would the Good Doctor be compliant and cut The Rickmeister’s toenails as requested? Meanwhile, with hood up and Storm Doris chucking down copious precipitation, Hector chatted to Marg en route t’Travelodge.