This afternoon we returned to Athena after three days in the Peleponnese. My fellow travellers had never heard of Nafplio, and were also unaware of the adjacent town of Argos. Nafplio is a Curry Desert, the choice of Bier was also restricted. Anyway, we’re – home – now, back to the land of backstreet Curry Cafes.
With dinner planned for this evening at the always excellent Geros Tou Moria restaurant in Plaka, a quick snack was required after check-in at our apartment overlooking Iroon Square and well, half of Athena.
Having stuck my head in the door at Vip’s Desi Fast Food and Biryani (Menandrou 11, Athina 105 52) last Tuesday, I had established the availability of Chapli Kabab (€2.00). Hector and Marg picked up Clive outside Beer Time and walked the few blocks to the north of Psyri. Arriving at Vip’s Desi around 16.00, all three inside tables were seemingly occupied. One table had food on it but no diner, staff dinner? This was removed, we had the table nearest the door. Vip’s Desi do not serve Curry, the Biryani, however, appeared substantial. Having been introduced to Chapli Kebab during Lockdown, Marg was keen to have this also. Clive mentioned – Donner. It’s not that sort of place – I had to tell him. Seekh Kebab was also posted on the display above the counter, not available today. Three Chapli Kabab it would be.
Two chaps were serving, one dealt with us. No Chips – was Hector’s request, nearly everything in Hellas comes with Chips, we were here for a snack. The chap brought three tins of Pepsi to the table.
We didn’t order that.
It’s part of – the deal.
Only Pepsi or a small bottle still water was available in – the deal. The Pepsi was accepted, eventually we secured polystyrene cups.
Chapli Kabab – The Deal
I had already noted the Chapli Kabab photo on the window, I hadn’t realised that all of this was coming. A pair of Chaplis and a Salad Garnish was anticipated, what arrived was almost overwhelming.
A pile of six round Naans was placed mid table. Three plastic plates then followed each with two Chaplis, Chopped Onions, Cucumber and Raita. Had the Chips been included, there would be no Stifado for Hector this evening.
I tore the top Naan in half and gave it to Clive. It was almost too hot to touch. Light and fluffy, excellent Bread, but not prepared on the premises. Bags of Naan were spotted in the corner behind the counter. Marg speculated about a microwave being used to heat them. No way, the griddle marks were a giveaway. Somehow, as we worked our way down the pile, the Bread had retained its heat. Two Naan were left at the end, we each had eaten more than one, were there actually seven to begin with?
Well fired, the Spice Level in the Chapli Kebab was impressive. An Earthy Flavour came across strongly. I spotted the whole Coriander Seeds in the Kebab, eventually I recognised the – Flavour – as – Cumin. The Cucumber and Onions added – Diversity. The copious Raita added moisture. This was certainly much more than – a quick snack – a meal by any other definition.
The Bill
€6.00 for the three of us.
The Aftermath
I had engaged our waiter in conversation leading up to the presentation of the Calling Card. On showing him the coverage of Athena Curry Houses, and in particular the many around his premises, Hector’s credibility was recognised.
Vip’s Desi, I shall hopefully be passing this venue for many years to come. Next time I may pop in for a Seekh Kabab, and no Chips!
And so back to Beer Time for the Happy Hour, Maggie will know where to find us.