Today, Hector was intent on finding Kofta Anda. Last year this was enjoyed at Pak Tikka Shop – Grill House (Sapfous 5, Athina 105 53) so that was the first place I looked, nae luck. With Marg in tow, Hector looked in every Curry Cafe in the neighbourhood, including the sister shop Pak Takka Tak. It was not to be, though I did find yet another venue on a block I would not normally take. Mian G. Restaurant on Sofokleous has yet to be added to Google Maps, or anywhere else I guess.
Back to Pak Tikka Shop it was, the Keema Matar impressed so much last week, it was certainly worthy of further assessment. There are three young waiters presently working here, one goes out of his way to make you welcome, perhaps he has the best English. Under our masks, there was a mutual smile of recognition.
Keema Matar (€4.00) and a Naan (€0.50) were ordered. Marg asked for – a small Salad. This raised another smile.
A large bottle of Still Water, suitably chilled was presented as before. Sitting with my back to the left side wall at the window, I noticed there is an upstairs. This must be investigated.
Keema Matar
There was the tiniest of Oily rims collecting around the edge of the Mince. Here would lie even more pleasure. Dry, as in Minimal Masala, but suitably – moist, this Keema Mutter had it all. The Seasoning was sensed first as last week, then the Kick. This was one glorious Curry. Mustn’t forget the Bread.
Once again, the Naan was perfection. So light and soft, a manageable size and served whole. Manageable? None would be left, and Hector did not eat it all!
Marg’s Salad was the standard which is prepared in batches and sits on the counter. Marg squeezed the Lemon over the array of Vegetables. The large Pickled Pepper came my way as did one Olive. So generous.
The accompanying plate of Raita became the Salad Dressing. Marg was initially content with her lot. She then started sampling my Keema Mutter.
A big Coriander blast – she declared. Marg was back for more, and more. Despite the Spice Level, Marg was wading in, well, she had three forkfuls, maybe four.
The waiter was over to check on our progress, I pointed to my plate – Wonderful.
It truly was. To visit Athena and not come here would now be unthinkable.
The Bill
€6.00 Yes, that’s all, folks!
The Aftermath
I had to ask – What days do you have Kofta Anda?
Anda Kofta tomorrow.
Guess what? I’ll be back tomorrow, please keep me a portion.