I have been frequenting Brick Lane for nearly 30 years and Monsoon is unequivocally the best curry house on the strip. Unlike many Brick Lane restaurants, Monsoon has never shut down and re-opened ‘under new management’ nor has it ever been necessary for the health authorities to keep a ‘keen eye’ on the place.
You are welcomed with sincerity and offered a deal at such good value it’s almost unbelievable. Next you are seated in extremely pleasant surroundings by helpful and friendly staff. You can bring your own booze which they will keep cooled in the fridge without charging corkage, all whilst keeping an eagle eye out for your bike or moped outside. Big groups have a choice of private rooms on the upper floors and couples can cosy up in any of the intimate corners.
Start with Koshi Fry, divine sliced lamb with green pepper and onion or Aloo Chat for veggies - diced potato in a sublime tomato sauce, middle of the roaders should start with Prawn Puree. Bulk up any starter by asking for a Puri, a thin but filling round of fried Indian flatbread, at no extra charge! Undoubtedly you will be satisfied by any of the mains, heat lovers should try the Garlic Chilli Chicken, milder temperaments go for the Prawn Pasanda and veggies will adore the Mango and Ginger Biryani. You will be awed by the delicious selection of sides, rice and breads to accompany your meal. Finish your experience with Kulfi, traditional Indian ice cream and round it off with an Irish Coffee – unbeatable in a Bengali run Indian restaurant in the old Jewish part of East London!!! Monsoon is fully licensed with good old kingfisher on tap although at £3.50 a pint it’s slightly on the pricey side – the only justifiable criticism.
I’d put a hefty wager that any night of the week you could ask customers in Monsoon if it’s their first time eating there and they will reply: “no – we come here every week!”
The Monsoon serves a variety of authentic Indian dishes and can cater for private parties of up to 130 guests upon request.