A is for Afghanistan!

Their first foray into dining by the alphabet according to the country of origin took place in Burke Road Camberwell at "AFGHAN VILLAGE".

Originally Ms X had "The Abyssinian" on the radar however they were having an extended summer holiday and were closed until the end of January......so, off to Afghanistan it was.

Parking outside the door is always the goal of Mr X and he can NEVER understand or accept that this is not always possible. After several Chevy Chase "Big Ben kids" circuits of the block, he reluctantly placed the car in the only available spot which still allowed them the benefits of walking to the restaraunt, not catching a taxi!

With memories of the 'Kite Runner' in their heads, they were pleasantly surprised by the decor, colourful surrounds and chairs! Despite visions of sitting on a carpet square, the crisp white tablecloths and tables and chairs may not have been the most authentic but were appreciated by Ms X's sore back.

They both felt very proud as they watched at least half a dozen diners get turned away..... got to get extra points for that.

Glancing around the establishment Ms X commented on the rather large photo of a young girl that was featured on the main wall. It was one of those photos where the eyes followed you and watched what you were doing. It also kept reminding Ms X of Sally Field and "Not without my Daughter".

Mr X initially chose the dips and bread as an entree however with subtle persuasion and a reminder of all the 'chip and dip' moments over the last month, the two shared an entree of lamb filled dumplings covered in a curry and yoghurt sauce.


Next came their main courses of mixed kebabs on a sizzle plate complete with sizzling salad and naan bread, as well as chicken korma curry (Afghan style) with rice pilaf which they again shared.
Both dishes proved to be very tasty and left them with no room for dessert

Mr X says:         The jury's out if I'd go back there. We need to experience more alphabetical restaurants for a comparison.

Ms X says:       I'd like to go back there with a group and preferably when the shops are open as it was an interesting shopping strip. But I know that's a topic for another research projec
THE ALL IMPORTANT SCORES:

• Ambience
  HE 5, SHE 7
• Accessibility (a fancy word for parking)
  HE 5, SHE 6
• Value for money
  HE 5, SHE 7
• Service
  HE 6, SHE 8
• Food
  HE 5, SHE 6
  Adding up the combined scores, the AFGHAN VILLAGE came out with 60 out of a possible 100 points for overall experience. And no, this is NOT an off shoot of Four Weddings.

Afghan Village: 923 Burke Rd., Camberwell



Postscript: Crisis averted as Ms X regained her appetite for coffee and dessert and stopped off at Max Brenners on the way home.