Karai Lounge – Chester

Posted on October 7, 2012 by Hector

It is the Biennial Weekend Long Weekend Trip in the company of Marg, Sister-in-law – Marion and the ever faithful Graeme. On the third third night it had to be Curry-Heute, finally. There was a choice of venue, Google had revealed some, however Brook St alone boasts four outlets which Hector would have considered had this part of town been visited sooner.

Chester Tandoori Curry-Heute (2)

The Karai Lounge (10-16 Brookdale Place, Chester, CH1 3DY) is adjacent to Chester’s Curry Street and had seduced us by being close to a Micro-brewery Outlet and us being in possession of a Voucher guaranteeing Free Poppadoms and Dips. Such Entrées should always be free anyway.

The table was booked for 19.10, we were the only Diners, but then I realised the Buffet Diners were upstairs. Perhaps a dozen people were taking advantage of the £9.95 offer. This was a substantial venue, but quiet. It was a Sunday night.

The Drinks order was taken, a solitary Bier, and Water in various guises. The Poppadoms were brought, five in all. There was sufficient Pickle and Dips to satisfy our needs. This is when the Lone Diner always wins out, the same quantity of Dips is normally provided for one as is for four.

The Hector choice would have to be one from Balti, Karai or Methi. The Lamb Methi was slightly more expensive than the other two dishes, I had formed a theory as to why. In order to avoid the dreaded Green mush I would order the Lamb Methi, Medium with a kick. I asked the Waiter if the Lamb accompanying the Methi was Tender or Tikka – Tikka was the reply. I was about to change the order when he offered it with the Tender Lamb. Marg ordered Lamb Methi too, the proper way. Tarka Daal, there I have written it, Hector ordered his first ever Lentil Side. This is the lasting effect of the experience of Chana Daal in Europe this Summer. Marg went for one Chapatti, Hector the Garlic and Coriander Nan.

Our Co-Diners have opposite views of Curry. Graeme is always happy to experiment – Machi Gulfam – an interesting sounding Fish dish was his choice. Marion felt brave in ordering the Butter Chicken. This meant a Special Pilau Rice was ordered along with a Peshwari Nan for the other side of the table.

The Chef must have wondered what was up as he was no doubt concentrating on ensuring the Buffet dishes were topped up. Now how many Pots do mainstream Curry Houses operate? Two is the figure that is normally quoted, all dishes being variants. This could well have been the case here as Marion’s Curry was Yellow in the Korma style, the remaining Curry dishes could easily have had the Masala taken from the same pot.

The Lamb Methi – with a Kick – was distinguishable from Marg’s normal version by having a single Green Chilli on top. The Masala looked very rich and clearly Onion based. Had more Tomatoes been added this would easily have passed for a Rogan Josh. Sadly the Methi was not that evident, the anticipated strong Herbal flavour did not emerge. I found the Lamb to be quite tough, Marg disagreed. She had expected the dish to be Drier than presented – who is this Lady? She enjoyed The Kick in her dish, I was permitted to finish what Marg couldn’t, had we been given the correct dishes? I will admit to polishing off the Green Chilli as I completed my meal and so the palate was in full Sprinkler Mode as I sampled the extra Lamb from Marg’s plate. The sharing of the Chapatti and the excellent Garlic and Coriander Nan worked well.. The Nan was a decent size and was Fresh and Puffy.

The Tarka Daal

I spend much of my Curry Life avoiding Soup. I had in effect ordered a plate of Lentil Soup. There was the presence of the Lentils obviously, a texture I enjoy, however it did not really add much to the overall eating experience – too bland. Who will be the first in the UK to match the wonder of what was served in the Czech Republic?

Across the table Marion was finding her Butter Chicken to be Spicier than her norm. The Chicken was of the Tikka variety. The Masala appeared to Hector to be the classic Korma Soup. Marion tried not to describe it as – Coconutty – as no such word exists, but there, it does now! The Masala was Smooth and Sweet, I did not try it, not after a supposed Methi.

Graeme polished off his Fish served in a Masala very similar to that accompanying the Methi dishes. Very flavoursome and well cooked was his verdict. The Peshwari Nan also impressed, I could not help but notice the quantity of Rice left over, no need to order a Rice portion per person at this venue.

There was ladies present

Three Desserts from the Frozen Pre-Packed Universal Menu were ordered along with two Coffees. WTF? This was eating into VDT!

The Bill

£72.00. The Bill of course had been inflated with nefarious Sundry items.

The Aftermath

The Calling Card was presented and received with considerable indifference. This venue clearly has a Marketing Budget as it promotes itself in the Guide to Chester given to all Hotel Residents. The overall experience was fine, but if I was going back to Chester I would be checking out the smaller venues around the corner.

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A Yadgar Feast for Hector

Posted on October 4, 2012 by Hector

Hector prefers not to cook for one, so with Marg away pro tem, a Yadgar (148 Calder St., Govanhill, Glasgow, G42 7QP) visit felt overdue. I have not eaten here since the enjoyable evening late in August spent with Ahmed from Islamabad and Shkoor, Mein Host.

The Curry order was placed last evening giving twenty four hours notice.

The Goshat Karahi had to be the dish of the day. If the wonderful Vegetable Curry that Mr. Anwar Sr. introduced me to some time back was available, then I must have this as a Side. Shkoor replied quickly enquiring if I wished my Lamb on or off-the-bone. If the Vegetable Curry is available then on, otherwise off – was the reply. This was a precise enough answer for Shkoor.

The Suspense

I entered the Calder Street Venue some fifteen minutes before the agreed 17.00, Naveed as ever acknowledge my arrival. Does this Chap take a day off? Naveed appeared from behind the counter shortly after I took my seat with a pair of Poppadoms, a Bowl of Onion Chutney and the recently improved Salad with Dips. The Yoghurt Dip was really creamy, the Salad was adorned with Black Olives and a couple of Fiery Green Chillies, not for the faint of heart. This Entrée is always On-the-House, it gives the Chef time to perfect the finishing touches to the wonderful food being prepared in the Kitchen. Having missed Lunch this did not last long.

The Main Course was brought along with the required two Chapattis. Behold the Mountain of Curry, this was not a single portion, it was nearer the Half Kilo, yet Yadgar do not normally serve the Half Kilo. The Vegetable Curry Side dish was then presented, I felt as if I was about to embark on a Feeding Frenzy, Three Curry Portions in effect.

The Lamb was on-the-bone, for once I was hoping to find one, or two bones. The Lamb was as tender as Lamb in a Curry should be, and even allowing for the Spices, still tasted – of Lamb! The Masala was Dry and Thick, precisely the way I enjoy it. The distinctive Yagdar Flavours to the fore. Young Ahmed then brought out the Side of Vegetable Curry. Now Hector could never become a Vegetarian, however this dish defies description – I shall try – Potato forms the bulk with Peas and Carrots as back-ups. The Kick is intense, the flavours even more-so, a slight Sweetness is evident. One could pick this out as a Yadgar Curry blindfolded.  The Sprinklings of Fresh Coriander are another source of flavour. If there is a better Vegetable Curry anywhere, then someone please advise.

One Chapatti (of this size) would have been enough, but then I did not know exactly what I was on the receiving end of.

Whilst I indulged my senses, Mr Anwar Sr. departed and waved goodbye. Chef Arshad came out of the Kitchen also to take his bow. He asked how I was enjoying my meal and then informed me that the dish had been cooked especially for me. This will explain the sheer volume, perhaps Mr Arshad, like Hector, prefers not cooking for one.

The Bill

There was one, it was paid. The Bill did not equate to what I had consumed, soft drink too.

The Aftermath

There was a sprint across town to visit the recently opened Inn Deep at Kelvinbridge. If they maintain the quality and range of Ales – i.e. to our Special Tastes, then this place will certainly be a success in the way that Bruadar was not.

Shkoor contacted me later to enquire as to whether I had been looked after well enough at Yadgar. He knows full well that the Yadgar Curry – the Goshat Karahi in particular – consistently remains IMHO The Best Curry served in Glasgow.

Posted in Yadgar Kebab House | 1 Comment

Rasoi Indian Kitchen

Posted on September 30, 2012 by Hector

The Barrel of Vierzehnheiligen Silberbock was empty, it was time for Curry-Heute. The Chaps permitted the Hector to select the venue.

The Rasoi Indian Kitchen (120 Dumbarton Road, Glasgow, G11 6NY) tends to be closed mid afternoon when I seek Curry, however I was confident that they had to open late Saturday afternoon. Six of nine took their seats at the far end of the room, two further Diners were finishing off nearer the door.

Dr. Rick, Dr. Stan and Mr. Boyd all took the Tiffon Route – three palate titivating selections presented in the classic Tower of Aluminium Tins and served with Rice. Dr. Stan and Mr. Boyd had the Desi Tiffon whilst Dr. Rick opted for the more elegant Old Favourite Tiffon. The Desi version was comprised of Chicken Desi on-the-bone, Lamb and Pindi, plus mas de Daal… what? The Posh version was South Indian Chilli Chicken, Chicken Korma and Lamb Bhoona.

Howard and Hector were of similar minds, is this our first Curry together since Deutschland? The Tender Lamb Pardesi was described as rich in Onions, Mushrooms, and Spinach with a hint of Garlic and Ginger. I asked for it as Dry as they could make it and two Roti (95p) as the Accompaniments. Howard asked for the Standard Version and expanded the order to include Mushroom Fried Rice, a Keema Nan and somebody ordered Pakora. Meanwhile Tracey would nibble on Tandoori Ribs.

Complementary Poppadoms and Bowls of Onion Chutney were set before us – gone in an instant.

The Pakora portion was not huge, however it was soon passed around the table – this had to be sampled. This was seriously Fresh Vegetable Pakora, the Potato was still on the edge of soft – wonderful. Tracey enjoyed her Ribs so much, she ordered more!

A Suitable Adjunct to Our Takeaway

Tracey described the Ribs as very fresh, not reheated as is the norm. Two portions proved to be too much and so the Doggy Bag was commenced.

The Pardesi were brought – this is the Dry one said the Waiter who presented virtually two identical dishes. Howard described his version as again very fresh, an excellent Curry, and voiced an appreciation of the Tender Lamb. Tracey had summed the dish up before I managed my first Dip with the Roti – it needs Salt! It also needed a bigger Kick. The Pardesi was most enjoyable, tweaked to the Hector style and who knows this could have been outstanding. Next time I shall ask.

The Three Tiffons

To bring the Traditional Takeaway Tins to the Table may have some merit in authenticity, but really, what is the point? The contents of each Tin was a Tapas-sized portion. The Chaps got tore in, there was nothing left at the end. Dr. Rick stated that there was – an amazing blend of flavours with a great range of Spices. The Lamb was succulent, the Masala in the Bhoona was Hot. I had a sample, it was seriously Spicy with a strong Achari flavour. A full portion of this would certainly be worth a try. Dr. Rick washed his meal down with a Salt Lassi, now how is one person expected to put away a full glass of this stuff?

Dr. Stan described the Desi Tiffon as – interesting, with curious different flavours, the Daal has gone. Indeed the Daal took me back to the superb Chana Daal (?) served up this summer in Europe. I have yet to track this down in Glasgow.

Mr. Boyd, The Orator, was as verbose as ever – fine, I agree with Dr. Stan and disagree with Holden, who is not here anyway.

Dr. Stan was able to reassemble the Tiffon Tins, well this wasn’t Rocket Science…

The Bill

£84.40. Pitched at the Cafe end of the Market, and thankfully not a tablecloth in sight (correction below), this was a fair price.  The Calling Card was accepted in good humour.  A very favourable review was promised.  The Rasoi Indian Kitchen is certainly worth a visit.

The Aftermath

A trip on the Subway to Inn Deep. Great Bier, pity about the Noise the DJ thought was interesting

Update

Tracey spotted a plethora of tablecloths in the photos, Howard may have spotted this tablecloth too…

Final Update

This Restaurant changed hands in May 2013, it is now under new Management/Ownership as is renamed the Indian Cottage.  Perhaps the laundry bill was uneconomic?

Posted in [Rasoi Indian Kitchen] | 1 Comment

No. 28, again….

Posted on September 28, 2012 by Hector

Hector finds himself in the same Curry House with the same Fellow Diner on consecutive days, yes Eleanor would willingly eat Curry every day too. Once again I have to hang on in Helensburgh for an evening appointment and the only place for Curry in this town at present is No. 28 (22-28 East Princes St, Helensburgh, G84 7QA ).

This was now Hector’s third visit to this venue. The Chef’s Curry had not particularly impressed on Visit #1. Last evening the Lamb Methi was fine, not outstanding. Hector really needed to find something that would leave a lasting impression. Achari Balti Gosht was given the task. Vegetable Rice was selected as the Accompaniment.

Eleanor chose a Goanese dish, the Kali Mirchi Masala, Lamb of course. This was described as being Hot, and containing Tamarind, Chilli and Black Pepper. Once again the Vegetable Rice was chose to accompany.

Last evening we both had Vegetable Sides to make the meals more interesting, this evening Eleanor suggested Vegetable Pakora. The Pakora had all the signs of being double cooked as deduced by the dark exterior. Oh to get freshly cooked Pakora… The Pakora was dry, the wrong dry. This was a pity as the accompanying Dips were well above the average. The very thick Yoghurt/Raita was a worthy complement to the thick Chilli Dip. A pity the Pakora was not up to it.

Oh no, Lamb Tikka!

Hector was presented with the Curry. The Masala was Dry as had been asked for, it was indeed Spicy, Sour, and Tangy – the full blown Achari experience. Then there was the Lamb.

The pieces were cut flat, the red food dye was visible. Hector will eat Lamb Tikka alone, it does not work for me in a Curry – well until this meal. For the first recorded time This Lamb Tikka was soft enough to match most Tender Lamb dishes. How has No. 28 managed this creation? Finally, I have found a dish here that I would have no hesitation in recommending.  And the Vegetable Rice was sound too!

Eleanor’s Kali Mirchi Masala was also Lamb Tikka and again Soft and Tender. She described the dish as having a very pleasing taste, with just the right level of Spice. Another success, it appears.

The Bill

£29.40. Within acceptable parameters.

The Aftermath

There was a presentation this evening, the Pub of the Year Award to the Commodore for serving the finest Ale in Dunbartonshire. The email said 8pm, why did I arrive at 8.50?

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Helenburgh – No. 28

Posted on September 27, 2012 by Hector

The Akash remains closed!  There is currently only a single Curry venue in Helensburgh where one can sit down to enjoy Nature’ finest Gift, or is it Man’s finest Creation? – Curry!

And so Eleanor decided to keep Hector company in his otherwise lonely vigil. It is the start of the Thursday Night Season once again, x6 Curry-Heute sessions in Helensburgh between now and the end of April.  We entered No. 28 (20-28 East Princes Street, Helensburgh, Dunbartonshire, G84 7QA) just before 18.00, two other diners were present.  The Akash would have had more than this but for reasons yet to be verified, they remain closed.  Hopefully Mr Ali will be back soon.

The possibility of Marg joining us later put the Waiter off, his magic recording device had to know immediately how many diners would be at the table, ah technology.  Last time I had a Chef’s Curry which did not overly impress, tonight I found Methi Gosht on the Menu, there was more hope.  Starters were waived in favour of a Side vegetable Dish.  I asked the difference between Mixed Vegetable Curry and Indian Vegetable Curry, the answer literally was – The Vegetables!  I went Indian, for a change.  One Chapatti (£1.50) felt enough.  As is becoming the norm, I asked for the dishes to be as Dry as possible.

Eleanor chose the Lamb Ceylonese, she debated Lamb for long enough, worried that it might not be tender enough.

 Eleanor buys food here regularly, but from their Takeaway venue next door, The Flamingo.  This dish was described as being – Fiery Hot, it also contained Coconut, Herbs and Spices, different. Bombay Potatoes was Eleanor’s Side with a Plain Pilau Rice as Accompaniment.

Both Main Courses were presented in Dry and very Thick Masala, so we were off to a good start.  The Lamb was Tender, not as soft as I have enjoyed of late but more than passable.  The Masala did not have any significant Kick or burst of Flavour despite the inclusion of the Methi, perhaps it needed more? The Vegetable Side was possibly more impressive, I am finding myself enjoying Vegetable Curry more and more of late.  This did have a distinctive flavour, a slight sweetness, not excessive, well balanced. The Okra was on the soft side but overall this did impress.  One Chapatti was indeed more than enough – as is an Egg…

Eleanor describe her Ceylonese dish as a New experience.  It was indeed Hot and water had to be partaken of, always a mistake.

 The Bill

£38.05.  The two Sides were £5.50 each which is £2.00 more than necessary, it was only Vegetables.

The Aftermath

The Victoria Halls, a talk from the Ice Warrior.

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Asmaan Indian Restaurant – What a Rediscovery!

Posted on September 25, 2012 by Hector

This was an Extraordinary Day, Hector found himself late afternoon looking for a Glasgow City Centre Curry House. There had been a rendezvous with Jonathan and we agreed to try a venue which has been ignored for many, many years. Hector last set foot in the premises occupied by the Asmaan Indian Restaurant (22 Bath St., Glasgow, G2 1HB) when it was The Bay of Bengal back in the 1970s when there were far fewer outlets and this frequently jam-packed place was referred to as The Great Industrial Curry House of The North.

Incredibly, the Asmaan has been the brand since the mid 1980s. How often does one walk past? It is metres from the Concert Hall and Buchanan Galleries, a perfect Location for Lunch, Pre-Theatre, or simply a Curry-Heute!

The Menu was not over-complicated, what there was proved to be more than sufficient. The strangely spelled Zaik-E-Dar ticked all of the required boxes. Described as being a Bhuna with Fenugreek (Methi), Coriander and Mushrooms, what more could I require? I asked the Waiter for it to be served as Dry as the Chef could manage. Jonathan selected the Pardesi described as containing Spinach, Mushrooms and Fried Onions. The request for a Dry Curry was repeated. Four Chapattis (£1.00) would be shared.

There were three Fellow Diners who were clearly regulars given the conversation which included the Waiter – Jaydee – from time to time. During the wait we could see a Mature Turban-clad Chef working away in the Kitchen. The surroundings were bright, thankfully no Table-cloths. We sat on Bucket Seats, a Novelty.

The Waiter brought the dishes, they looked the part, the Thick Masala on both dishes was evident. Jonathan had Mushrooms piled high on top of his Pardesi. My first impression of the quantity was that the serving might be on the small side. The richness of what was set before us removed any further thoughts of this. The flavours simply burst out of the Zaik-E-Dar, well they would with Methi and Coriander, it was off to a good start. The Onion Slices complemented the dish further, this was an amusing moment.

Across the table Jonathan was having a similar experience. He even mopped up the last of the Masala with his Chapattis, something he rarely does.

 How many Bland Curry Houses are there in the Centre of Glasgow, this place has been overlooked for too long. If one does not have the time to get along to the Charing Cross area then this has to be considered. Open every day, then all day at Noon, the opportunity to visit at any time of day is there. There is a dearth of venues in Glasgow selling Curry on a Sunday afternoon.

The Bill

£24.90. This included two Bottles of Sparkling Water.

The Aftermath

There was a momentary struggle with the Card Machine. This gave us more time to chat with the Waiter. We introduced ourselves, Jaydee was pleased to exchange Calling Cards. The irony of the now decades this venue has operated and been ignored was admitted. Hector will be popping in here again – soon.

Unbeknown to Hector, I had just paid twice.

Posted in [Asmaan Indian Restaurant] | 1 Comment

Crawley – Desi Grill & Karahi House

Posted on September 23, 2012 by Hector

Hector spotted this new Curry outlet on Thursday night as Maggie drove Clive and I back from a disappointing Curry in Horley. Desi Grill and Karahi House (94 High Street, Crawley, West Sussex, RH10 1BZ) is a title Hector had to notice, it ticks all the boxes. Somehow Clive and Maggie were unaware of its existence. After a day in Brighton, Clive and I arranged to meet Maggie off a train arriving back in Crawley around 21.00. It was Curry O’clock.

From the exterior one might think the venue to be a Takeaway only, but closer examination reveals a sizeable seating area to the rear. Then there is another surprise in store, The Shisha Lounge, a Smoking Room under canvas out back. Not this would ever be of any interest to us.

This looks like another Crawley Winner!

The menu had all the dishes one could hope for, but in particular there it was – Karela Gosht. Two Tandoori Roti (£1.00) would go down fine with that. Temptation was set before Hector, how little for the Lamb Chops? I must try this and Maggie thought the same. Clive asked for a Shami Kebab to start, his favourite evidently. The waiter declined to sell them, tonight they were not good enough to serve. Seekh Kebab was the fall-back.

When it came to ordering the Mains I did my best to communicate the request for a Dry and Thick Curry, this was recorded. Maggie asked for the Lahori Lamb Karahi. She was then asked if she wished it on-the-bone or off-the-bone. It had to be on!

Before Clive could order there was a momentary disruption

A Chap at the counter was overheard asking for Cheese on Chips.

Throw him out – Maggie told the Waiter. It is ridiculous that people walk into a venue such as this and ask for such a feeble order. Punjabi Chicken Curry (off) was Clive’s order. The Lovely Couple would share Mushroom Rice and a Keema Nan.

The waiter read back the order – and Cheesie Chips!

Complimentary Poppadoms and Dips appeared.  A plate of Salad appeared.  We were being well looked after.

The Starters came and so did Maggie’s Main Course. Not yet please.

Clive described his Seekh Kebab as being Spiced to the perfect level – the tongue is still throbbing… The Lamb Chops Portion was Four Chops for £4.00. This is the best value I have encountered yet. The Chops were burnt-looking, thoroughly cooked yet retained their moisture. The flavours were intense, as was the Spice content. I suspect this could become a Late-Night Nibble for Clive and Maggie in the times to come.

Maggie’s Main course appeared again, it looked very pale, a very light brown. The Masala was Thick but not Dry, but in no way was this Soup. Maggie made ooh and aah sounds all the way through the eating, she was loving this. The pile of bones grew, Maggie remarked at easily the Meat came off the bones. Maggie had been fed. Bloody marvellous, the best Curry of this weekend! (Maggie had a Stiry-Fry at The Downsman.)

The Karela Karahi was similarly pale but Thicker due to the extra Vegetable. A Roti and a Nan – said the Waiter as he sat my Bread Basket before me. The Bitterness of the Karela prevented any sense of Sweetness from the Masala. The combination of the very Tender Lamb and Karela was just how I liked it, well it was until the Lamb ran out.

Clive described his Punjabi Chicken Karahi as being – excellent, which is officially better than – very nice.  Clive too was heard making the occasional Ooh as he ate.

The waiter appeared with a Complimentary Garlic Nan. He had worked out that if I was photographing everything there must be a reason. I gave him the Calling Card, he looked interested. The Garlic Nan was covered in Slivers of Garlic, this was the best of the Breads set before us. No Keema was harmed in the creation of Clive’s Nan.

We agreed that we had been treated to three great portions of Curry.

*

The Bill

£42.09. With three Starters this was very good value.

The Aftermath

The waiter offered us a Complimentary Rice Dessert. We had to decline, the appetites had been sated.

We were told that they have only been open for a month. The place should do well. They were interested in our comments on the food. I remarked that I had ended up with Karela only but this was down making sure the dish was served with a Thick Masala. Maggie suggested the Mushroom Rice could have had more Mushrooms. Everyone was happy to pose for photographs as we left. The Main Chef was presented especially. I congratulate him on the food he serves.

I wonder where Clive and Maggie will have their Curry tomorrow?

Update

It didn’t last, too good to be true.

crawley-kismet-kebab-curry-heute-8

 

Posted in [Desi Grill & Punjabi Karahi House] | 1 Comment

Jai Ho! – Another visit to Horley

Posted on September 22, 2012 by Hector

The Booking at Jai Ho at The Coppingham Arms (263 Balcombe Road, Horley, Surrey, RH6 9EF) was four 20.30, four hours after our superb Curry at The Downsman. Having been to India earlier this year, Clive and Maggie have no qualms about eating food in from the Indian Subcontinent as the norm. Normally Hector would have no problems in facing a Double Curry Session, alas, the Downsman Curry Experience today was the not the planned Snack.

Jim and Debs would be our Co-Diners this evening, again both have visited India and know what constitutes a Quality Curry.

One is expected to enter the former Coppingham Arms through the front door which takes one into the Bar area the door from the car park takes one into the eating area. There was nothing Bier-wise that Hector found of interest and so Soda Water was the Drink of Choice. The Others managed to find something Palatable, with a Kick.

We were taken through to the Dining Room at the rear, with the table hard against a pillar, five felt an awkward configuration. Poppadoms were offered, one each would suffice. They came quickly. Jim observed the lack of his favourite Dip – Lime Pickle. This is apparently his favourite additive when cooking.

The Poppadoms were long gone and nobody had taken our order. On the last visit the food was ordered on the Bar side where Mein Host had sold us on the need to experience the Lamb Chops. We had long since decided what our order would be, eventually we were permitted to convey this information. Jim and Debs would share Lamb Chops and Vegetable Samosas. Clive ordered Lamb Chops too assuming Maggie would assist. She had other ideas. Maybe Maggie was not that hungry tonight.

Hector had Fish Curry in mind as a way of guaranteeing something Light, and permitting a more diverse culinary report. The Malwani Fish Curry was the only Fish Curry on the Menu. This was described as having a West Coast origin.

Jim felt the Specials did not hold anything of interest and so chose the more traditional Lamb Rogan Josh. Debs and Clive chose Goan Prawns, whilst Maggie opted for Garlic Prawns. Mushroom Rice, Nan, Garlic Nan and a Tandoori Roti (£1.95!) for Hector were the Accompaniments.

The Starters came in a reasonable time. Knifes and forks were abandoned, there is only one way to eat Lamb Chops. Clive enjoyed his Chops despite trying to persuade Maggie and I to take one or two off his hands. Jim felt that the Downsman Chops are signification better, they are more Crispy at the latter venue. The Samosas impressed both Jim and Debs, the Potato revealing itself first, the other Vegetables and Spices joining in to the complete the joy of this Snack Food.

21.30

Maggie and I had now sat without food for an hour, this was to our benefit.

The Main courses were brought a full hour after we had sat down, this tactic certainly improves the profits as more Bier was ordered. Assuming we would retire to The Swan, I stuck with the Soda Water.

The Malwani Fish Curry was White Fish in a Yellow Masala. My Islamabad Curryspondent told me that in the Indian Subcontient they do not really go out of their way to identify the various Fish that they encounter. Masala Fish is how Fish is sold in KRK, my Glasgow Grocer/Butcher. The Coconut content was minimal and so the Sweetness level was within tolerable limits. The expected Red Chillis were present and the Black Mustard Seeds. This is the classic South Indian Masala (by my Geographic description), the Masala had more than just a Kick, it was Fiery. I enjoyed this variation from my preferred Karahi-style dishes. The Fish was Light and so did the job, A Curry without the Calories, hopefully.

Maggie tasted Clive’s Goan Masala to compare it to her own. We had deduced that the Masala here was the same as in my Fish Curry. The heat built up slowly on Maggie’s palate and then she felt the assault. In comparison her Masala had the Garlic to the fore. Maggie’s revenge for Clive having something similar in Horley two nights before.

Jim had demolished his Rogan Josh in quick time. Perhaps the Portion was not that large? He was not particularly impressed by what he had eaten. Not the best, not the worst, he felt he could have cooked the same himself. Bog standard, typical Indian Gravy with some Lamb in it.

The Bill

£123.90. When one adds another £30 for the taxis to and from Crawley this may make Horley a destination too far. Crawley has enough very fine Curry outlets.

The Aftermath

The taxi back took three people home and two elsewhere. Hector felt like a Bier finally, and so to The Swan it was.

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Return to The Downsman

Posted on September 22, 2012 by Hector

Hector returned from the Bar at the Burgess Hill Beer Festival to find that Maggie had hatched a plan – even though we are due to have a Curry-Heute at Horley’s Jai Ho this evening, a Curry for lunch was mooted. Nowhere in Burgess Hill wanted to feed us mid afternoon and so it was back to Crawley and another visit to the excellent Downsman (Wakehurst Drive, Southgate, Crawley, RH10 6DH).  This is a Pub which does not sell  Interesting Bier, but now sells wonderful Curry.

The plan was to have a Light Lunch and not spoil the Appetite for this evening. I had to consult a reliable Curry Website to find out what I had eaten here on my first visit – Lamb Methi – perhaps the best one I had ever eaten. Clive decided this was the dish for him, and it was to be a Light Lunch, a Keema Nan. The Lamb Saagwaala sounded as if it could be a variation form the normal Lamb Spinach creation. As the Roti were a pricey £1.50, the Paratha seemed to be better value. Maggie ordered something quite different, a Chicken Stir-Fry – Roshan Ada Murgh along with a Mushroom Rice.

Clive went to the Bar to order the food. At this point I found a Comment by Bert from Belgium on my last visit. He highly recommended the Chilli Wang Wang and so the Light Lunch was expanded. This turned out to be a very generous plate of Spicy Chicken Wings. It was just as well we were sharing, nobody could have eaten a Main Course after this. The Wings were indeed Spicy and just in case there was an insufficient Kick, a small Bowl of Chilli Sauce was provided. We dipped but mostly ate the Chicken without. Chilli Wang Wang indeed.

Whilst we were waiting for the Mains, Ross called his Dad, he was in the neighbourhood and so would join us for a Curry.

The Roshan Ada Murgh arrived on a Sizzling Platter. The Chicken was coated in Spice, the rest was large-ish pieces of Onion and Capsicum. Maggie was determined not to eat the lot as time was passing. She enjoyed the dish but let Ross tuck in when he arrived.

I had to sample both of the Lamb Dishes to establish which was the Methi and which the Saagwaala, the latter had a slightly greater leaf content. Both dishes had a significant Yoghurt content. The Saagwaala was not overwhelmed by the Spinach as most Saag dishes tend to be. The Masala was incredibly Rich, the Lamb as Tender as Lamb could possibly be. The Methi may Out-Wow the Saagwaala, however both dishes are wonderful. The Chicken Wings were taking their toll, I only managed half of the Paratha.  Clive described his Lamb Methi as having exceptionally Tender Lamb, exciting on the Palate, Tingling, not Burning…

The Bill

£33.85. This was paid in advance at the Bar and so made the presentation less personal.

The Aftermath

Ross ordered Chicken Achari, a Side of Saag Bhaji and Vegetable Rice. The Saag Bhaji looked like a typical Spinach Curry. For once I declined the offer to sample, a desperate attempt to let the food go down. Maggie is convinced that the photo of Ross will increase the Hit-Rate on this site. He looks like his Mum… Yes, that is him on the BMW too.

Four hours until our next Curry… it will have to be Fish.

Posted in The Downsman Indian Restaurant (Curry Club) | Comments Off on Return to The Downsman

London (Tower Hamlets) – Sheba – Brick Lane

Posted on September 21, 2012 by Hector

This is only Hector’s third visit to Brick Lane and the first since the dawn of Curry-Heute. In the interest of all things fair, I made the decision to return to the venue that had been on the Recommended List since the start of this Website – The Spice Brick Lane. It was that good, alas it has gone.

I had walked the main stretch three times before I could find a suitable replacement venue. Three things were apparent as I saw Brick Lane in daylight for the first time: most venues are Bangladeshi, they all have tablecloths, they do not serve the Curry I am looking for.

The Award Winning Curry Houses were dismissed instantly, who wants an Award? The menus in the windows did help me establish that the choice of dish was limited to the Mainstream. Dear Reader, if one wishes Chicken Tikka Masala then support your local Curry House, it all comes out of the same jar.

Sheba (136 Brick Lane, London, Greater London, E1 6RU) I now discover was awarded Best Restaurant in Brick Lane 2012, so how can any other place be best in London et al? They were modest with their boast. The sign was above the Menu in the window and given the narrowness of the pavement, totally missed by Hector. It was the menu that took me in – there was a Dry Curry listed, nowhere else had Karahi, Desi or anything remotely interesting in their menus, that I spotted.

The Lone Diner entered and was given a small table mid room. Two menus were offered, I dismissed the Lunchtime Menu instantly, the full Bhuna was required. The Dry Meat (Korai Bhuna) was the order with a Garlic Nan. At £2.70 for what would be a relatively small Nan, this was way better than the requested £2.15 for a solitary Chapatti. Who are they kidding? Am I in Aberdeen? And as we all know, multiple Chapattis are inclusive in Bradford.

The two Chaps on duty were busying themselves as best they could whilst my dish was prepared. I had the trusty HTC to keep me amused. Clive had emailed me directions to Brick Lane and most importantly, the Craft Beer Company near Hatton Garden. From where would I get the 55 Bus?

The Korai Bhuna was presented, it looked wonderful. Hot and Sizzling, I was warned not to touch the karahi-bowl. The Nan was fresh and puffy, but half the size one would receive in Northern Britain. The Waiter walked passed as I took my first mouthful – Good Curry was my instant complement. Indeed, this was a true gem of a Curry. Dry as the name suggests, the Lamb was so Tender. The magnificently Thick Masala had familiar flavours. There was a combination of Caramelised Onion and probably Methi too. Bay Leaves were picked out, however this was the only debris, Hector ate every morsel.

The Waiter enquired half way through if I was enjoying the meal, well of course, they must know how good this dish is, though his Assistant was heard to ask what it was when it came out of the Kitchen. I took the opportunity to engage in conversation. It was established that nearly all the Curry Houses in Brick Lane are indeed Bangladeshi, so this means I now have to find the Punjabi cohort in London. Clive always remarks that the Glasgow-Pakistanis speak with a Glasgow accent. The waiter sounded very English, so perhaps he does not notice this in his own backyard? A very charming guy was my impression.

The Bill

£15.00. On composing The Bill, The Waiter instantly realised he had the wrong price for the Dry Bhuna and so checked from the Menu.  Do people not order this wonderful dish? London prices, still cheaper than Aberdeen. The Curry portion was more than adequate.

The Aftermath

The Calling Card was graciously received, the Waiter was happy to have his photo taken. Later this very evening, Sultan, The Manager emailed me to thank me for my visit. Everything was indeed good and the food was excellent.

I feel I must have a Brick Lane Recommended Venue, and so even after only a single visit it has to be Sheba.

Posted in Sheba | 1 Comment