Suman Nandy
Google
It's my parents' Golden Anniversary today and I wanted to make the day big. A trip would have been hectic as a treat is thrown to kins on Sunday. The next option was an unforgettable lunch. We brothers reviewed the popular Bengali destinations as they suit the big guns. I visited a few too. Finally, we rested our trust in Aaheli.
Aaheli's name is not a quick name, even in its segment, is it? We had our apprehensions, won't lie. However, the more we learnt about the pet names, more we wanted to confide in Aaheli.
The booking guy, Pradipto, was inviting and accommodating, to say the least. His voice and words soothed our initial tension.
How luck betrays, the first downpour of this Autumn had to happen today. By the time it settled, it was one in the afternoon. We started hastily.
We got a follow up call on our way. We were awfully late.
At the gate, our car and we - both - were greeted warmly. It felt really good right away.
We entered the restaurant and were ushered to a pre arranged table. Flowers and a freshly baked cake appeared on our table. The beginning were ceremonial. Thank you, Pradipto and team.
Ujjal came to take our orders. He was patient, helpful, understanding, smart. I wanted different varieties of unique fish dishes. They started popping on our table soon enough.
We ordered Sugandhi Gobindobhog, Machher Matha Diye Moong Dal, Jhoori Aloo Bhaja, Chingri Posto Bora, Rajbarir Topshe Bhaja, Kolkatar Muchmuche Fish Fry, Bhetki Paturi, Daab Chingri, Dhumrogondhi Illish, Rasnagre Rabri.
There was want of desired crispiness with all the fries. That took away their charm. Moong daal could be lot better. The Chingri and Paturi tasted delicious. Boneless fillet of Illish was a wonder to me. Time is not on Ilish's side to expect first grade taste or aroma. We won't crib there. The Rabri had a tangy touch to it. That diluted it's authenticity. It was decent though.
A baby seat was placed next to our table. We requested for it and it proved to be a world of help. Thank you so much.
We would come back to Ujjal. He is good. He kept coming back, asked for anything we needed and came back with whatever little we wanted. He spoke well. In the couple of hours we were there, he mingled well with us. His contribution was key for our experience to be a flier despite the food being below par for such a price point.
Thank you, Ujjal and team Aaheli. Next time when I come, I'd surely like to ridk chewing my fingers with your fantastic food.
Cheers. Good night.
