Tabak

As we didn't have much time, we opted for the first licensed restaurant we'd come across.

Tabak was pleasantly decorated (but is in need of a new carpet). We appeared to be the only diners at that time, though a party of half a dozen or so entered about a quarter of an hour later.

As seems the norm, three poppadoms and relishes arrived without prompting, and we elected not to have starters. A couple of pints of lager and a Coke arrived while we perused the menu. This was mainly standard fare, though there were a few "North West Frontier and Kathmandu Valley" dishes. Phil had the Lamb Karahi, and Lee and I both had the Balti Kyber Lamb.

The waitress apologised that the Tandoor wasn't fired up - so no Naans. We selected Chapatis, as well as rice.

As Phil commented, we don't seem to have got the hang of this restaurant reviewing lark: we all went to the same establishement where we could have covered three AND two of us had the same dish!! Still, I'm one for the old proverbs: Practice makes perfect!

As is our wont, we sampled each other's dishes, to discover there wasn't much difference - perhaps more emphasis on Coriander in the Kyber, versus more Onion and Tomato in the Karahi?

Nevertheless, we all enjoyed the dishes: the rice and chapatis were good, though we all commented on the necessity of using red, green and yellow food colouring - looks nice, but I personally don't consider it adds to the dining experience.

Verdict: A little refurbishement could transform the place. The meal was good quality, and the service pleasant. Having had a chance later to peruse the menu,it seems a little more varied than the standard "High Street Indian", and I think we will return to sample some of these.

Sandro, Phil & Lee

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