Flip through the latest issue of Gulf Weekly.
I USED to consider myself as an Indian fine food connoisseur. In fact one of my restaurant reviews remains framed today in the reception area of the Raj Mahal in Bristol, an Arab shaikh-owned establishment which arguably dishes up Britain's finest Indian fare, writes Stan Szecowka.
However, working alongside native Indians and having shared their lunch-time meals I can honestly say their curry concoctions taste nothing like the food presented back home, which is now more popular than traditional fish 'n'chips.
How I have longed for a good English-style Indian meal. I have tried some of the most expensive and exclusive Indian restaurants on the island and have never quite found the taste, the ambiance or even the service of the Raj Mahal until I ventured into Spices, the new restaurant situated alongside the Crowne Plaza, Bahrain.
The roomy, bamboo shuttered interior has a clever combination of cosy table settings catering for couples as well as groups which allows for quiet conversation but at the same time a buzz of atmosphere needed for a good night out.
And even though executive sous chef Gopal Singh Bartwal may never have touched British shores his personal specialties capture the vital taste ingredient that often let down his rivals.
Check out the Machi Amritsari starter, a fresh fillet of fish seasoned with spices and fresh herbs shallow fried Punjabi-style and the Spices special gosht - mouth-watering lamb cooked with onion and tomato - main course.
If only a paswari naan had been on the menu, I would have been in heaven ... or, at least, back at the Raj!
