Sheba
136 Brick Lane, London E1
shebabricklane.com
Tube: Liverpool Street
The scene: Set amid the buzz of curry lovers’ paradise Brick Lane, this long-running family-run restaurant bustles with families and groups of friends. Sheba stand outs from the area’s identikit curry houses that lure people in off the street with promises of cheap fare or free booze. On the Tuesday night when I visited, the place was packed with diners who’d actually booked a table.
The grub: Specialities include Lobster Bengal Special, Goan Chicken Xacuti and Roopchanda, queen fish from the Indian Ocean marinated in lemon juice. If you want to clear your sinuses, opt for the fiery Bollywood Blast, infused with naga chilli, Mexican chilli, African chilli and green chilli. My naan bread was hot and fluffy and the Sulemani Chicken was tender and aromatic.
Behind the bar: A range of international beers and wine.
Bill please: Main meals start from £7.50.
Verdict: Stand out food at affordable prices in a convivial setting.
4/5
– Janine Kelso
