When I do go out for a meal here in Leeds , it is generally not for Indian food . Firstly being fresh off the boat, it almost never lives up to my expectations of food back home and secondly the definition of Indian food here is slightly murky encompassing the often in conflict regions of India , Pakistan and Bangladesh . Now divided by war and cricket they share a diverse palette blessed with biriyani , kebabs and all things meat and curry-full.
If however you are not hung up on Indian food here not tasting like the food back home look no further than Akbars in Headrow. For starters aim for the lamb chop. Succulent and generously spiced not unlike a preparation called chaap in eastern India. The chicken Nambali however was rather bland in comparison and smothered with cheese, which of course is not an authentic Indian or Pakistani ingredient. Recommended for people who have a low tolerance for spicy and hot food.
For side orders we braved the chicken vindaloo and the minced lamb korma. No complains here as to the taste of the korma as it was polished off at our table before I could serve myself a second helping. The Vindaloo by any other name is fabulous but its not really a vindaloo. The authentic Vindaloo is a pork curry and was a Portuguese parting gift to Goa, India. The chicken / beef/ mutton /shrimp versions seem to be British concoction like the tikka masala and more like a rather tempered down sour curry. Really good but still not a vindaloo.
The highlight of the meal and certainly the centerpiece of the table is the family naan (leavened flat bread baked inside an earthen oven or tandoor) which arrives hooked to the branches a metal stand .At about a foot and a quarter long it isn't really that big and in fact if you have worked up an appetite on your way its just enough for two adults. The naan is light and fluffy which tells you someones had a long day with the dough and it comes with choice of seasoning. Always go for garlic. If you are not a vampire.
From the day I was told to monitor my blood sugar I cannot seem to resist a dessert after my meal. Thankfully the gajar halwa or grated carrots dipped in all things sugary is just what the doctor didn't order. Its one of those things you cannot share. Order two or resort to a long uncomfortable silence with your dinner date.
The service is the best bit. Its fast and friendly , we went in at past 11 on a Friday night but were seated promptly despite the restaurant being chockablock with diners. The restaurant is accommodating without being imposing in size and with all creature comforts. Not the best place for a conversation since it gets difficult to hear above the din of fellow diners but its open late and mighty easy on the pocket for the gang to head on to after the movie.
