IN THESE gloomy economic times, diners are looking for feel-good food that is reasonably-priced and friendly service to lift their spirits.
Lahore Karahi does the trick with its cheap and cheerful approach. The decor is minimal with no fancy lighting or artwork, but don’t let this fool you over the quality of the food.
The jumbo-sized mixed grill featu-ring chops, chicken tikka breast and shish kebabs, was a generous portion for a starter, even for four people.
With just enough space in our bellies, we tucked into the main courses: chicken tikka karahi, aloo gosht and king prawn karahi, which was the most expensive at £9.50. And it was certainly worth that bit extra, accompanied by egg fried rice and a-dren-ched-in-butter naan.
The aloo gosht was equally succulent, with melt-in-your-mouth mutton (young goat) off the bone in thick gravy. The classic chicken tikka karahi also did not disappoint, and was enhanced by the use of exotic ground spices and fresh herbs.
We rounded off the ideal summer Sunday lunch with mango and strawberry kulfis. And although it was the weekend, the service was quick and courteous thanks to the army of waiters. They will no doubt have their work cut out this summer, with the restaurant boasting a large plasma TV, where diners can keep an eye on the Ashes and the start of the football season while tucking into their meal.
What better way then to while away an afternoon and keep your mind off the recession.
-Nadeem Badshah
Dining was at: 1 Tooting High Street, Tooting, London, W17 0SN.
Tel: 020-8767 2477; www.lahorekarahi.co.uk
