Two nights ago a Bradford taxi driver recommended the Sultan Restaurant (219 Manningham Lane, Bradford, BD8 7HH England) as being a Curry House worthy of investigation. Hector has drive along Manningham Lane many times and has wondered about the venues near Valley Parade. I phoned yesterday to establish the opening time, Noon suited perfectly.
I arrived this Friday Lunchtime at 11.55, the door was ajar. I entered and was invited to choose a seat. A Bottle of Tap Water was brought, the single sided A4 Menu was already on the table. The Menu was not extensive, sensible, practical. The Basics were covered, it had to be Handi Gosht (£8.50). As I have written a few times in recent weeks, a Curry that lets one know what Chef is capable of.
The Waiter was back, I was offered Lamb on-the-bone, – Yes please – Chapattis would accompany. Although Chapattis appear on the Menu at 50p, I assumed three would be inclusive.
A Salad and decent portion of Tangy Raita were provided. The metal plate was a bit different. I did my best to take some photos of my surroundings. I counted some twenty seats at six booths, one had an extra table and was set for a larger company. Sultans is open from 12.00 until 22.30, closed on Mondays.
Two Chaps entered at 12.10, that was it for the duration.
The Stainless Steel Karahi accompanied another metal plate, three Chapattis were served in the usual plastic basket.
The Reddish Brown Masala was topped with sliced Green Chillies. The protruding bone suggested business. With the Red Oil collecting at the periphery of the Thick Masala, this Handi appeared to have Pedigree.
Gloopy – I noted, this Masala was certainly Thicker than the Norm, Excellent. The Tender Meat was cut into various sizes, none were – Bradford small. Even allowing for the bone count of six, four of which were – Sucky – there was a mass of Meat here. Tomato was the first sense of Flavour, the Spice was well pitched, the Seasoning was OK.
I waited for the – Bradford Taste – I recognise to appear on the palate, it didn’t. Instead, something quite new emerged, a slight, but more than acceptable Sweetness.
Sultans may well be worthy of further study. This was a Fine Curry, or as they say in these parts:
It were a’right.
The Bill
£8.50. Chapattis and Salad included.
The Aftermath
Mein Host was keen to verify that I had enjoyed my meal before I had a chance to present my Calling Card. I promised to return for the – Sultan Fish Karahi (£8.50). Photos were then authorised. The door was already locked as I departed moments before 13.00, time to pray.
It is only at the time of writing that I have spotted – Any Vegetables (add to Main Dishes) £1.50. This makes me even more determined to return, this is how I prefer my Curry, not simply – Meat and Masala.
