I would describe the Rajasthan III as an old school curry house trapped in a bygone era of when a choice of Indian restaurants were few. The white table cloths, patterned carpet and rickety decor is something you might associate with your neighbourhood curry house which you love as the food is so good and so familiar. I’m not here to judge but that’s what it reminds me of, in the City however, you might hope for something more.
The menu is full of high street staples.
The ubiquitous popadom and condiments.
Chicken Korma – ‘cooked in a very thick creamy sauce for smooth tastes’ £10.90. I quote from the menu. It’s bright enough to be used for road markings on our British roads and tastes like processed pre-packed supermarket microwaveable fare. But I’m not surprised.
Chicken Tikka Masala – ‘cooked in exotic spices and fresh cream’ £11.80. There is definitely nothing exotic about this brightly amber coloured dish which had a kick to it. (That was the only redeeming value). The chicken was on the rougher side of rough too, and had the same texture as cola cubes.
Tandoori lamb chops – ‘tender lamb chops marinated overnight in ginger, crushed spices, skewered and baked’ £13.50. I think they were marinading them in bonfire ash which we may as well of been as eating these little chops were cremated beyond belief. I’ve not seen chops this small either or tasted anything as charred as them. Things aren’t progressing well so far.
Make of this what you will.
Korai Bhindi Gosht £14.80. This was an off menu item and something which I love and order whenever I go to a curry house. Their rendition was not stage perfect sadly as it lacked spice punch and flavour in general. The tomato sauce was very prominent in and amongst the thankfully tender lamb which meant for an imbalanced dish.
Bombay Aloo – potatoes cooked with hot spices £4.4. Lukewarm in heat and taste meant that even the sides are stuttering along.
Saag Bhaji – ‘fresh spinach tempered onions and garlic’ £4.40. I’ve never had frozen spinach before but if I ever did then I can imagine it tastes like this insipid bowl of vegetables.
Cheese naan £3.40. Cheese and carbs is the perfect marriage and this was exactly that. I’m not going to question the authenticity, neither should you, but I didn’t care as it was the most majestic thing I ate all night.
Talking with pictures.
The beer gods are sending their love.
The verdict:
When did I go? July 2016
The damage: Expect to pay £30-£40 per head with drinks.
The good: The fridge full of cold beer and the cheese naan.
The bad: Everything
Rating: 1/5
Address: 38-41 Houndsditch, London, EC3A 7DB
Closest train station: Liverpool St/Bank
Phone: 02076260033
http://www.rajashtan3.co.uk
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