Marg hitherto has managed to avoid Curry in Whitechapel, it was a matter of time. After extravagant Coffee and Cake just off Trafalgar Square mid afternoon, we had to walk off the excess calories. This meant an evening Curry. Tayyabs was the intended venue, however, the place was stowed, waiting customers spilling out on to the street. And so, it was round the corner to Needoo Grill (87 New Road, Whitechapel, London E1 1HH). I did say back in July that it was – worthy of further investigation.
Taking the right hand stairs, we were shown to the same table that Steve and Hector had occupied on Visit #1. A large group sat along the opposite wall, a huge party occupied the room downstairs,, I never did see the adjacent upstairs room this evening. What is certain, Needoo Grill is popular.
It was 19.15 when we entered Needoo, our Order was on the table at 19.27, so the Curry is ready to serve. Within seconds of taking our seats, Poppadoms and Dips were on the table, Complimentary Poppadoms and Dips, always appreciated (*). One Poppadom had seeds, quality.
The Karahi Fish Masala (£9.95) had to tried. The Paratha (£3.20) impressed last time, tonight, the opperchancity to sample the Tandoori Naan (£1.50). Marg really went for it: Karahi Gosht (£9.95) accompanied by a Tandoori Roti (£1.30).
Last time I was appalled at having to pay £3.25 for a bottle of Still Water. With no Sparkling Water available, Marg took the can option (£1.95) whilst Hector had a bottle of fiz. Guess what? £3.25! Both were 330ml, so why the difference in price?
The Breads were presented – scored through – but still whole, pleasing. The Roti, on top, only turned slightly crispy. The Naan, was an absolute joy. A sensible price, a sensible size. Light, puffy, burnt blisters, all that the Hector seeks. I ate every piece, most unusual.
Karahi Fish Masala
Marg thought the Blended Masala looked to be red from her side of the table, evidently not, a trick of the light. Within the Masala was a decent quantity of Fish, no flakes here, sizeable chunks. Of what, who knows? I ask the question sincerely, maybe menus should be forced to disclose this information. The Fish had been well cooked, no rubbery nonsense here. Two slices of Lemon were uncovered, the addition of – Citrus – always goes down well. There was also just enough Coriander on top to add further Flavour.
The Spice Level impressed, for the n’th time I have to wonder why so often I have Fish Curry and the Seasoning is low. In time, the Flavour of the Curry came through, even a sense of – Fishiness.
For those who have read Hector’s most recent encounters with Fish Curry, there was no sign of Oil here. Overall, this was a worthy Fish Curry, certainly lacking the – wow – factor, but definitely enjoyable. The Naan was key to my enjoyment.
Karahi Gosht
Available in two sizes, this was the standard portion, and it gave the impression of being – huge. One day I’ll come here and try the – large (£16.95). The Masala appears to be identical to that served above, one can only speculate as to how Curry at Needoo Grill can be served so quickly. The Big Pot – comes to mind.
Two large pieces of Capsicum and a thick slice of Tomato were secreted in the Masala. Marg would leave all three which surprised. Surely the Tomato was tempting? The – Ballast – appeared not to have interfered with the Flavour of the Curry.
Marg was enthusiastic from the start, her positives were too many to note:
Succulent meat, in a rich earthy sauce. A very enjoyable dish with my usual Roti.
The Bill
£33.62. So, the Poppadoms and Dips were not Complimentary (*). £1.98 for these. A 12.5% Service Charge? £3.74, needlessly added. Beware of the cheeky add-ons at Needoo Grill.
The Aftermath
The pavement outside Tayyabs was still crowded as we headed back to Whitechapel station. Perhaps mid-afternoon may be the best time to try this popular venue once more.
