The CAN Project – performance at the Barbican was four years ago, where does time go? Having met Marg off the train from Glasgow at Euston with Lord Clive and Lady Maggie of Crawley, Curry for lunch was the plan. In memory of all things CAN related, due reverence was made to the Theatre Royal – Drury Lane – where CAN performed, supported by Terje Rypdal, back in November 1975. That was a lifetime ago.
We walked to The India Club (Hotel Strand Continental, 143 Strand, London WC2R 1JA), Hector’s third visit, Marg’s second and the first for our Crawley hosts. As we climbed the stairs to the second floor, I promised them something different. The diners were all spaced out as are the present demands on social distancing. We were given the corner table where I sat on my first visit with Jim and Jonathan back in 2016.
The Menu was on the table but covered in polythene, one way of preventing people handling it. There were three Lamb Dishes to choose from, the Bhuna Lamb I had on Visit #1. In keeping with my present enjoyment of things – Traditional – I opted for South Indian Lamb Curry (£9.80) as did Clive and Maggie. Marg chose the Bhuna Lamb (£9.90) but only after the waiter verified that the – capsicum – garnish would be withheld. Having ordered Curry, the three of us ordered Pilau Rice (£3.50) to accompany, Marg stuck to Chapattis (£3.00). One Chapatti does Marg, this would be a treat, but why was it necessary to order in pairs?
I did advise Clive and Maggie that as I would only be photographing one South Indian Lamb Curry, theirs couldn’t possibly taste as good as mine.
Clive required Bier, a pint of Cobra (£5.00) would satisfy his need. A large bottle of Sparkling Water (£3.50) for Marg and Hector, and a small bottle of Still Water for Maggie (£2.00) completed the Order. Over a tenner for drinks, at lunchtime? This was indulgence.
There was a sufficient number of diners such that photographing the interior would have been intrusive. Instead, I had to settle for the rooms on the floor beneath. The Menu is there, I have never seen anyone eat in the lounge.
The aroma of Cloves was powerful as the Rice was placed on the table. Seeds, which I initially took to be Cumin were stirred through, however, as the telltale – liquorice – was not revealed, I then took these to be Fenugreek, Methi, Man! The Rice portion just about covered the plate. The two Chapattis were ample, perhaps this is the better deal?
South Indian Lamb Curry
The portions do look to be tiny, however, the bowls are almost deceptive. As I decanted the small cut pieces of Meat, I did reach double figures, so enough then, just. One is never going to get fat dining here, note to self, order a Starter next time.
There was a blast of Cinnamon, Green Cardamom were encountered, fortunately before they were taken in. The Masala may have been Shorva-esque, but such was the ratio of Meat to Masala, this was not a Soupy Curry. The Meat was beautifully Tender and required minimal chewing. I still cannot work out what happened last night in Shoreham.
The Flavours were amazing, Maggie was quick to react when she started eating, Clive also made positive noises.
Maggie:
The portion was perfect, not too much. You could taste the cardamom, and spices, cinnamon, tomato, not overwhelming. The rice was seasoned.
Clive:
Best of the last three days. Yesterday’s portion would have been ideal. I could have done with a bit more of that.
A traditional Indian Curry, far superior to the vast majority of Curry Houses in the UK.
Bhuna Lamb – **Chef Special**
When Hector saw this, he wanted it. On another day, a second Curry may well have been ordered. The Thickness of the Masala was so inviting. Why would Chef want to ruin this Curry by covering it in Capsicum?
Marg:
Minimal sauce, but loads of small, tender, delicious pieces of lamb. The meat complemented the chapatti with the rich masala taste. I could have eaten it all again, it was so tasty.
So, three out of four were left wanting more. The portions could be considered as – Tapas+. A two Curry, two Chapatti option may be considered next time.
The Bill
£63.60 The drinks inflated the total, but still, not a lot of food for the price.
The Aftermath
There were no staff present to thank, a quiet withdrawal. And so to Hackney Wick for a wee howl at a hop.
2021 Menu
