136 Brick Lane,
Brick Lane,
London,
E1 6RU
0872 148 0513
Note: Calls cost 10p per min plus network extras.
The ViewLondon Review
It can be just a bit overwhelming deciding which Indian restaurant to pick while strolling down Brick Lane. Thankfully, it just got easier because Sheba is an excellent choice with an extensive menu, affordable prices, and great service.
Venue
Sheba is not very big, seating only about fifty people across the upstairs and downstairs areas. The decor consists of comfy orange leather cushions and simple white walls decorated with red and orange paintings. Recessed lighting dimly illuminates the venue, leading the eye to a small bar towards the back. Tables are packed close together so there isn't much privacy and it can sometimes get a bit too loud. If you are interested in a private party, the downstairs room can be booked.
Atmosphere
The staff are very attentive and pleasant. Sheba is perfect for couples, groups, and just about anyone looking for a great Indian feast. A television near the bar shows lively Indian pop music videos which make you want to dance.
Food
Veggie samosas (£3.10) are quite large, not too greasy, crispy, mildly spiced and packed full of potatoes and vegetables. Onion bhajis (£3.10) are huge and bursting with fresh, thick slices of onion and could easily be shared between two people. Shish kofte fish kebabs (£3.20) are made of minced chital fish, herbs and spices and formed into patties, then fried. The spices do not overpower the flavour of the fish which really stands out in this unusual and tasty starter. King prawn butterfly (£4.50) is a massive king prawn butterflied, lightly breaded and fried. There isn't too much flavour here so a dipping sauce helps.
Tandoori mixed grill (£12.95) is an impressive sizzling platter of mixed meats including chicken tikka, lamb tikka, sheek kebab, tandoori king prawn, tandoori chicken and lamb chops. Begun tomato jhool (£6.95) is a main course of thick, chunky pieces of aubergine and tomato in a rich tomato based sauce. Sag aloo panir (£3.50) is a side dish of creamed spinach, potato, onion and tomato in a mild sauce. This dish is slightly sweet, and delicious. Chana panir (£3.50) is another side dish, with chick peas, cubed Indian cheese and tomato in a mild sauce. Desserts include ice cream, cakes, and even tiramisu.
Drink
There is an extensive wine list where you can get your hands on a perfectly reasonable house red (£11.00) Italian Montepulciano D'Abruzzo which goes well with most dishes. There are also soft drinks and beer for those that want to eschew the vino.
Last Word
Though the decor and design at Sheba is very similar to most of the other restaurants in the area, the food and service make it a superior option to other Brick Lane venues.
Sheba Restaurant has been reviewed by 84 users