Prashad, Drighlington (January 2014)

As 2014 dawned on the club, the new year was kicked off with my controversial choice for January's destination - vegetarian option Prashad. The proposed lack of meat took its toll on some club members, putting their bodies into shock, with My Cousin Vinny absent due to sudden back spasms - the body refusing to move if no meat is available - and Temple Of Doom catching a 24 hour sans meat chest infection - the body refusing to breathe if no meat is available.

But those available for the club were hopeful of good things after a nod from Gordon Ramsay's Best Restaurant TV show and rave reviews on the local grapevine. With its rural location in Drighlington, pre-curry drinks were held solely in the Spotted Cow across the road from Prashad. Fine smooth ales over a warm coal fire made a great setting for banter on forthcoming stag do's and the inevitable weddings that come with them. It was now time to brave the 30 yard walk in the cold to Prashad.

Prashad, Drighlington

Immediately on arrival you notice the fine décor of the restaurant and the club was greeted by a sharply dressed waiter. This place is certainly kitted out nicely as we all take to our 'throne' style seats. Drinks ordered (from a wide selection of beers and wines), it was time peruse the menu. Once over the initial confusion at where the Chicken and Lamb dishes were, our orders were placed. The Paneer Massala was the popular choice, as well as Spinach and Potato…., err…curry!

The pickle tray and popadoms arrive and not a greasy spot in site, plus the pickle sauces were thick and tasty -  a good start. The Tasting Platters arrive for starters and the waiter very kindly explains what each element consists of - and it wasn’t just a case of onion and mushroom bhajis - but rather fried banana and coconut potato balls. Intriguing. And thankfully, very tasty indeed - certainly different and light.

Now for the mains, the test we had been waiting for. Again, the dishes were light and tasty, with no grease or oil in sight, but of course there is no meat so this is to be expected. The Paneer Massala received mainly positive reviews, but one suggested it became too sickly as the meal wore on. Personally I enjoyed it and wolfed down the lot! The Spinach & Potato suffered from Ronseal syndrome unfortunately, although nice it came across like a large side dish.

With two members down and only vegetables to pay for, I was expecting a cheap instalment, however at a hefty £140 I was happy for the 'injuries' to my comrades! And if we needed proof that meat didn’t contribute to the following days gas factor, we have it, although certainly on the milder side of the gas spectrum. The veggie option did bring a new side effect however as reports of Paneer night sweats from the 'hot cheese' came in.

Overall, an interesting and different club, nice for the change and very enjoyable food but couldn’t do it every time. With its lovely décor and surroundings and light, tasty food I'd suggest its somewhere to take the 'Mrs' for a splash of romance rather than tomfoolery with the boyzzzzzz.

Cheers

Danny