Hi Phil,
Unfortunately, I know only too well of the type of restaurant that the author refers to. Many of them opening until 3 and 4 am, full of drunks. These places specifically cater for that type of clientele and there decor is reflected in this. Very sparse furnishings, tablecloths situated under perspex coverings, plastic glasses and so on. Not the place you would take your much better half for a romantic meal for two.
Not quite sure I agree with his insinuations with regards to the quality of the food though. Unfortunately, the great paying public can be very gullible when it comes to quality.
For instance; serve up a bowl of curry, with a couple of serving spoons, dunked in it, accompanied by a mountain of rice served in a cold balti bowl, with a couple of 'bin lid' sized naans, and charge 8 quid for the lot, this is the typical style of your 3am BIR.
Now, take the same food cooked in the same kitchen but on a clean, white shiny plate, present a portion of the rice, shaped from a serving ring, with a couple of 5" lengths of chives placed on top as a garnish. Then offer a half size portion of curry presented in a beautifully decorated receptacle, garnish with a sprinkle of fresh coriander. Finally, offer two dinner plate sized, hot naans, brush with a coriander and garlic butter. All this served in a 'cosy' lit alcove of the restaurant with gentle background music and adequately friendly staff, and most would gladly pay 20 quid for the privilege!
All that glitters ain't gold ;D
There are many places cropping up in Manchester that claim to serve 'Traditional' Indian food, Zooks being such a place. I've never ate there so I can't really comment on how good they are.
I suspect that they will be very good for this reason, their focus seems to be to offer a 'dining' experience rather than a quick turn around, which can only be for the good of the diner.
Ray
