‘Slums’ is a place best known for its odd naming choice. Unfortunate, but there you go. I’m not here to comment on that however I’m just here to let you know if it’s any good or not. I’ll let you decided your feelings on its name.
To put it simply ‘Slums’ is to Indian food what Boojum is to Mexican food, with the set up being very similar. That kind of ‘Subway’ production line way of making food. Choose your base, add a meat, etc., etc. It’s a nice quick way of giving people exactly what they want. It’s all a bit overwhelming first time you experience it, but a few goes through and you’re ordering like a pro. As you can see from the Slums menu below this works the same.
There is a theme going on here, the outside looks as though it’s been put together by first time builders using rusted corrugated iron and MDF boards. Upon entering, the theme continues with dark reclaimed looking, ragged wood pieces and high tables with little colour. The titular slums of India recreated I’d assume, how well weapon. However it does give you a sense of being a step up from your average take away place.
When I went it was just after 2pm and the lunch time trade had obviously tapered off. A large quiet man served me and whilst pleasant wasn’t exactly forthcoming with his suggestions. I opted for a bowl meal (no wrap) and got the Madras rice with a mix of Chicken Medium and Mild (the medium only had a half portion left) Masala sauce and Slumdog Chutney. I also had a load of lettuce, corn and peppers thrown in. I’ll admit I was dubious with my choices, but my bed was made (of rice) and I had to lie in (eat) it.
The portion was very hearty and at £5.50 was very reasonably priced. I had opted not to eat at one of the shanty town looking tables, or use the lean-to seating options but return to my office and consume there. I was very impressed with the meal. The tandoori chicken was well marinated and had its own delicious flavor, it was tender and went well with the sauce. The Masala tasted fresh and tomatoey with a nice zing and a hint of heat but with a smooth finish coming from the cream. The savory rice went well with the slightly sweet taste of the tomatoes and the sweetness in the chutney meant that over all the flavours balanced out just as you’d want them. It made me wonder what the other combinations would work out like, I think they would taste great as this seemed to be a planned effect and not just a case of me picking the ‘right’ combination.
Whilst Slums may have questionable taste when it comes to names, when it comes to palate they have it just right. I’ll definitely be back slumming it again soon (sorry couldn’t resist).
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