Shahbag

Shahbag is a neighbourhood of Dhaka & this longstanding Hampstead curry house goes further than many to bring the food of Bangladesh to London. The decor might seem virtually unchanged since the 1970s, but the kitchen has clearly been perfecting its repertoire for many years. Curries come brimming with flavour, meats are tender & the spicing is just right. Look to the chef’s specials for interest: lamb shatkora uses the lemony Bangladeshi citrus fruit; prawn Hyderabadi is heady with herbs & tangy with tamarind sauce. Thalis are a canny meal-for-one, with several mini dishes served on a platter. The usual roster of side dishes & sundries more than pass muster, particularly the coconut pilau rice & aloo paratha. Drink Cobra beer & revel in the old-school service.