Hector and Marg encountered Avtaar (Neukölln) (Weserstraße 5, 12047 Berlin, Deutschland) yesterday whilst walking through Neukölln from Hermannplatz towards our Curry at Chelany. Research shows that this is one of four – Avtaar – outlets in Berlin. Hector does not usually rush to eat in – chains – or – franchises – however, as this was in the area in which we are presently residing, it seemed churlish not to give it a go.
Arriving at noon, a handful were sitting outside, we walked past the Bar and into the first of two dining rooms before encountering the Waiter. We were able to choose any table. Two ladies were the only others dining inside. Al fresco rules.
Having seen the – Mittagstich – Lunchtime Menu, advertised outside, I assumed this would be presented on a card, or similar. When handed a virtual tome, I was quite confused. The pages I studied all had €6.90. This was almost the full Menu as served a la carte, I checked later. Presumably the portions are smaller midday, as is Hector’s appetite.
Having denied myself Meat for the past few days, it was time for Lamb Curry. I overdosed on – Seafood – latterly in Sardegna knowing that I can only serve it sparingly at Hector’s House. Too many – eyes – for Marg. I made the usual checks, Lamm Vindaloo looked like the best Hector Curry, as long as the – Paprika – could be withheld, otherwise Lamm Subbji may come into play. I noted that the description for Fisch Vindaloo was perhaps more suited to my preferences. Garlic and Ginger were mentioned, no – Peppers – and also – Scharf – was declared. Why do menu compilers not spot these inconsistencies? Why do easyJet enforce a strict – one piece of hand luggage – at some airports yet at Cagliari you can walk on with three? Hector may have to change his name to Victor (Meldrew).
Marg decided to have a big blow out and order two Poppadoms: Papadum (€0.50) and Mango Chutney (€1.50) to arrive at the same time as the Lamm Vindaloo. A 750ml bottle of Wasser Classic (€4.90) completed the Order. Once again, a bit steep for Sparkling Water. All – Main Courses – are served with Rice and Salad, so overall, one cannot really complain.
A plate of Soup arrived accompanied by a small Bhatura. I looked at the Waiter as if questioning why he had brought this.
Part of the menu – was his explanation.
The Soup was yellow, thin, and thankfully – hot. There was a wee kick, a tang, it was well-seasoned. I took half and passed the bowl to Marg. This was enough to titillate her palate. The Bhatura was still large enough not to be classed as a – Puri. As with yesterday at Chelany, this deep-fried Flatbread was well received. 
The Rice had Cloves present, enough to add an Aromatic Flavour. The quantity was ideal, enough to cover the plate, no more required. I would eat every grain.
Lamm Vindaloo
The appearance did worry: unnaturally – Red – Oily – and surely all these white grains were not – Coconut? Having stirred and decanted, things certainly improved. I counted six decent sized pieces of Meat and only two pieces of Potato. At least there was Potato. The payback, however, was three Big Blobs of Onion.
Here we go, the Flavour of a classic Euro Curry. Moderate Spice, OK Seasoning, Curry for the masses. The Lamb was Tender and seemingly – Moist. Having questioned the quality of the Lamb yesterday at Chelany, this was much better. It tasted – Meaty – the – Umami – card can be played here. Most importantly, I could not taste – Coconut – in the Masala.
This was – Curry – no more. Still, the thought of – Deutsche Küche – makes me appreciate – Indian Cuisine – all the more.
Meanwhile, Marg took care of the accompanying Salad. The Poppadoms were well toasted and had the embedded Cumin Seeds. Marg received three Poppadoms, presumably the third was part of the Mittagstich. All was well in Berlin-Heute.
The Bill
€14.30 (£12.88) The water aside, good value.
The Aftermath
The Calling Card was presented, however, our Waiter was obviously busy, and so off we went.
Mittagstichacts
