The urge to eat fish was strong last evening. Conveying my craving to Sameer produced the desired results. He immediately called and made reservations at “Oh Calcutta!”. It took us 30 mins to reach Nehru Place, from Dwarka. Rajeev smirked in satisfaction to see that they had valet parking and he  wouldn’t have to peel off to park.

The spacious dining hall was a welcome sight compared with the cramped spaces which are the norm these days. The décor though distinctly male is neat and comforting. A book cubboard in the corner housed some leather bound volumes which added to the intelectual ambience of the restaurant. We were lead to a table and immediately attended to though the dining room was full of people. An aspect that struck me was that most of the people seemed very comfortable and the sound of conversations in spate ruled the air.

Rajeev and Sameer ordered the drinks – A Pina Colada for me and a Kahlua on ice for Navnita whereas Sameer and Rajeev opted for Beer.  I began to scan the menu for starters. By the time I had gone through the first few pages I was drooling for the food described therein. In consulation with Navnita, I quickly ordered Kakra Chingri Bhapa  – Crabmeat and Shrimps combined with mustard, chillies and coconut, wrapped in banana leaves and steamed to produce a soft, melt in the mouth cake in which one could savor the flavors of mustard and chillies without having to bear the heat of the two spices. Very subtle indeed!

Before this dish arrived we were served with our drinks The Pina Colada though a trfle too creamy was the perfect combination of white rum, coconut cream and pineapple juice. However it did not arrive with the dramatics that normally accompany this cocktail. No umbrellas or flowers just a sensible slice of pineapple hooked to the edge of the glass. Do I see a Virgo male behind the concept here? The Kahlua arrived in a shot glass accompanied by a Martini glass full of chipped ice. The concoction was delicious. The beer of course bears no description.

We had also ordered a plate of Chicken Pantheras as a starter.  Spiced minced chicken had been wrapped in soft pancakes and crumb fried.  Once again the taste of mustard and spices were subtle and thoroughly enjoyable against their crisp covering. The chutneys and sauces accompanying these starters were equally delicious. A sweet mint and tamarind chutney came along with the Kakra Chingri and a Kashundi with the Chicken pantheras. Besides, the waiter had also placed a bowl of Bodi Bhaja with some roasted tomato chutney. Mmmm very good!

Our main course consisted of large slices of Betki in a thick sauce of mustard and chilies. Since we had a choice of gravy we had chosen Shorsher Bhata over Kalia or Tomatoer Jhal. The Steamed Rice with Betki Shorsher Bata was simply the best I have ever tasted.  The Kosha Mangsho, Curried Meat in a dry sauce of onions was however not the best I have tasted and I would go so far as to suggest it was a mistake. The whole wheat nan however was a healthy, happy choice and improved the taste of the mutton. I would have liked to see a little more fanfare in the presentation of the food which was homestyle and lacking in imagination. However all in all it was a dining experience I would love to repeat over and over again until I have exhausted the vast cuisine they have on offer.

The cost of the meal including the drinks, the service tax and service charge was Rs 3500.