Time was, a midnight Bradford Curry could be the first/last of three in a twenty four hour period. Maybe those days have gone for good, just as well. After the ritual Fish Karahi at Kashmir Restaurant this afternoon, the plan was to squeeze in one more. Two nights in Bradford only, so many favourite venues to get round, not possible.
When Mein Host at The Record Cafe declared a 22.00 closing tonight, Hector’s plans dissolved into disarray. Still not enough recovery time after a late lunch, and the explanation was something to do with being a Sunday and January. Chaps, we need a midweek trip to Bradford/Halifax in the warmer months.
It was 22.30 when we walked into Sheesh Mahal (6 St. Thomas’ Rd, Bradford, BD1 2RW). Westgate, next door, was derelict, in fact, even the signage had gone. So much for their renovation. There was no Taj, Omar or Amar, only young Abdul recognised us. Usman and Waqas would also be looking after us tonight.
Poppadoms were declined, twice, Raita and a Dip, whose recipe appears in Curry-Heute as – Pakora Sauce 2 – were brought in an instant. Despite pleading for no more, a comprehensive Salad still appeared. Such is the welcome at Sheesh Mahal.
So no Curry for Hector, something I have been tempted to do in Glasgow for some time was the fallback. Mix Grill Platter (£13.45) – a Meat Feast, and no need for unnecessary Rice/Bread. Surely, despite Marg saying she wasn’t hungry, she would have a nibble, or two, or three… To Share For 2 People – the menu informs. Marg thought this was OTT, but that would be my main/only course.
Marg not hungry? The Record Cafe’s crisps, almonds and olives had all been enjoyed. I fail to comprehend why Marg needs these distractions, surely watching Hector enjoy his Craft Beer should be stimulating enough of an evening? (emoticon understood)
Marg’s order – Kashmiri Tea (£2.60).
A Saturday night, and only two other customers. What has happened to the days when we were all crammed into the original, dungeon-like premises? Since the rebuild, I have never seen Sheesh Mahal this quiet at night.
Mix Grill Platter
Seekh Kebab both Chicken and Meat, Chicken Tikka Boti, Chicken Wings, Masala Fish and Lamb Chops! The Chicken Wings aside, Omar has probably tantalised the Hector with the remaining items in this list at some point previously.
The pile of Meat on the platter was huge, two of everything, perfect for sharing. Overall, there would only be one criticism: Hector likes his Meat cremated. However, succulence may then be lost. Tonight, everything was suitably hot and moist.
I started with the most familiar, the Seekh Kebab. Here was the opperchancity to confirm that Lamb always trumps Chicken, and of course it did. Spicy and Herb-rich, superb. The Lamb Chops, being relatively underdone, did not have the impact they could have had. But still, Lamb Chops, and Hector had both!
By this time it had become apparent that Marg was not going to assist, she would force me to devour all that lay before me. Hector was up for the challenge.
Nando’s! – was my exclamation when tackling the Chicken Tikka Boti. Tasty Chicken, but as ever, the added Spice and Flavouring were superficial. (which of course is why Nando’s provide bottled sauces to spice up the white meat)
Wetherspoon’s Chicken Wings are spicier than those served here. The best was kept to last. Omar presented Steve and Hector with Fish one evening, it was truly outstanding. Tonight, the Batter was a bit limp, but the Fish itself was – Wow! Thick chunks of Fishiness. For the second time today, Hector had been wowed by Fish. Why is that I have to come to Bradford to make it so?
The sad conclusion had to be admitted: having managed all this, I could have had a Curry.
The Bill
£16.05 My records show that a Mix Grill Platter in 2021 was only £10.95.
The Aftermath
Having observed the photography, Usman asked if I was a writer, I don’t think he was prepared for the introduction of Curry-Heute. He has only been at Sheesh Mahal for a couple of weeks. The Calling Card was distributed to all, time to make everyone famous.
I was also told that Westgate is relocating. Maybe a Bradford resident can advise as to where?