There had to be one final indulgence in this trip to Crawley, Lamb Chops (£8.95) for lunch at The Downsman (Wakehurst Drive, Southgate, Crawley, RH10 6DH). Clive took little persuasion. We arrived @12.30 to find signs for – wet paint – and chaps working both inside and out. Joinery was going on at the Bar also, very noisy. Sophie, who served us, pointed out that there was work going on.
Clive got in the drinks. Sadly, the Real Ale at The Downsman remains woeful, stuck in time. Hector stood the Lamb Chops.
The Bill
£18.90 A well known and reliable Curry Blog records that in 2014 this secured six Chops in a portion for a Pound less. Six Lamb Chops, Mmmmm…not that Hector was ever allowed six.
Whilst we waited, Maggie phoned to announce her imminent arrival. Hector was challenged with choosing two – not so Spicy Starters – for her and Lauren.
Onion Bhaji (£2.95) and Tandoori Chicken Niblets (£6.25) appeared to fit the bill. Clive went up to order, I suggested he ask how many Bhaji were in a portion, three, typical. Why don’t English Curry Houses make Vegetable Pakora which match the standard set in Scotland?
The Lamb Chops arrived moments before the ladies. Two platters, both with Lamb Chops sizzling on a bed of Onion strips. Calm Hector, don’t get too carried away. Something caught in my throat, cough…. Lauren asked if I needed an ambulance. Not yet.
Four Lamb Chops
What? What happened to six, five even? Prices have not gone up at The Downsman for over two years. Some level of forgiveness permitted then, the Chops were certainly larger than those served in most establishments. The Lamb Chops served here have set the standard, had this been maintained?
Clive started first – very excellent – was his first utterance.
Suitably cremated, topped with Coriander, the coating looked to be on the light side. The taste – was there, a unique blend of Herbs and Spice. Still wonderful, but only four. Most certainly no longer a portion to share. More follows.
Onion Bhaji
One each, then Maggie halved the third. All was well here.
Tandoori Chicken Niblets
These appeared to be way better than simple – Chicken Wings – and were decidedly plentiful.
I want some more – was Maggie’s end statement. Maybe not enough to share then? Or were they simply – hungry?
This was the first time we four have dined together since a certain wedding some years back. The bride and groom, the best man and brides-made.
The Aftermath
Normally one eats Lamb Chops as a Starter. Having taken myself to Gatwick instead of having Curry, there was a definite sense of the prolonged aftertaste. Cumin could well have been the dominant Spice which lingered long afterwards.
Wonderful as the Downsman Chops may be, Karahi Palace (Glasgow) is now the best value, and maybe just as good.