There is one non UK Curry House which stands out above all others. The number of visits does not necessarily reflect the number of visits to München, one visit leads to multiple Blog entries. Indian Mango (Zweibrückenstraße 15, 80331, München Deutschland) sets the standard for South Indian Cuisine, the choice for Hector is simple – Fisch Chettinad – or – Lamm Chettinad. Last year when only one visit was possible – both.
Arriving in München mid afternoon, I took my time wandering down town through Marienplatz to towards Isartor. The 17.30 opening is relatively late. Three of us entered at 17.28, by 17.30 four tables were occupied. By the time I left only three tables were unoccupied. Popular? There is Curry here for all tastes.
One of the Chefs smiled in recognition as I entered, he knew me, I recognised none of the staff. A new chap took my order: Lamb Chettinad (€15.00) and a 0.4l glass of Mineralwasser mit Kohlensäure (€3.00). The Sparkling Water came instantly, the Curry at 17.45.
Lamm Chettinad
The Smokey Aroma had already wafted during the preparation of this Dish. Topped with Fresh Coriander, Tomato slices and Ginger Strips, the Dry-Thick Masala defined what Hector looks for in a Curry. I spread the – inclusive – Rice over the plate, quite a Quantity, but I would eat every grain, well judged. I counted the pieces of Meat as I decanted, fifteen. In the past I have criticised the portion size, no problem here, a mini Feast.
Take it easy, Hector, don’t rush, enjoy every moment.
When one anticipates ecstasy the moment is rarely fulfilled. The first mouthful was thus. Spice was the first thing to note, perhaps the Seasoning was down. I usually start a visit to München with Fisch Chettinad, not today, all will become clear over the next two days. The deflationary moment passed, the Flavours built up, the Aniseed I have only started to specifically identify in recent weeks since visiting Rishi’s Indian Aroma in both Aberdeen and Glasgow. I have also looked up how a Chettinad Masala is made, Garam Masala with Aniseed and dried Red Chillies would be a suitable summary. There was a hint of Citrus here also. In time I had to accept that more Salt in this Lamb Chettinad would have spoiled it, this was just Wonderful, a Stunning Curry, South Indian Curry, the way I want it.
The Bill
€18.00 (£15.93) Worth every Pfennig.
The Aftermath
Herr Battra, the Head Waiter, entered at 18.00 just as I was finishing. He stopped to chat with a couple sat near the door then having spotted me, was straight over. I stood to shake hands.
Is your wife here? – was his first question.
She has to work, for a couple more years.
I told him I was in München for two days and would attempt four visits.
See you tomorrow – was his parting comment.
Fisch Chettinad is not on the Menu, however, if one asks…
