While walking along Manchester, I decided to try out Shahi Masala, a charming Indian restaurant that caught my eye. The moment you step inside, you are welcomed into a basic and simple setting. The decor is straightforward, lacking any frills, but it provides a clean and comfortable environment for dining.

Our meal began with an order of Chicken Tikka for starters. This dish was a fantastic introduction to the flavors of Shahi Masala. The chicken was incredibly tender and juicy, marinated in a delightful blend of spices that made each bite a burst of flavor. The grilling process added a perfect char that enhanced the taste, making it a dish I would highly recommend to anyone visiting the restaurant.

Following the delicious starter, our meal continued on an exceptionally high note with the Lamb Nehari. This dish was a revelation of flavors. The lamb was cooked to perfection, tender and succulent, and the rich, spicy gravy had a depth of flavor that spoke of hours of careful preparation and the perfect blend of spices. Each bite was a delightful explosion of taste, warming the palate with its subtle heat and fragrant undertones. It was, without a doubt, one of the best versions of this classic dish I have ever had.

Accompanying the Lamb Nehari was a serving of Pilau Rice. The rice was light, fluffy, and wonderfully aromatic, with the distinct flavors of saffron and subtle spices. It paired beautifully with the robust flavors of the Nehari, making each mouthful a harmonious blend of textures and tastes. The rice was cooked to perfection, each grain separate and perfectly seasoned, enhancing the overall dining experience.

To complement our meal, we ordered Mango Lassi. This traditional yogurt-based drink was refreshingly delicious, striking the perfect balance between sweetness and tartness. It was thick, creamy, and packed with the natural flavor of ripe mangoes. It served as an excellent palate cleanser, soothing the heat from the spicy dishes and providing a sweet contrast to the savory items.

However, not everything was perfect during our visit. We decided to try the Keema Cheese Nan, expecting it to be a delightful fusion of flavors and textures. Unfortunately, this dish was a letdown. The nan bread itself felt undercooked, lacking the typical crispness on the outside and fluffiness on the inside. The keema filling was sparse and did not contribute much in terms of flavor, and the cheese seemed almost nonexistent. This dish felt bland and underwhelming, especially in contrast to the vibrant and well-executed flavors of the other dishes.

Despite this hiccup, the overall experience at Shahi Masala was enjoyable. The simplicity of the decor does not detract from the quality of the food. In terms of pricing, Shahi Masala offers a fair deal. The prices are reasonable for the quality and quantity of food served. Considering the meticulous preparation and the flavors that burst forth in each dish, I found the pricing to be quite justified. It's clear that a lot of thought and care goes into both the food and the dining experience as a whole.

In conclusion, Shahi Masala offers a delightful culinary journey with a few minor bumps along the way. The Chicken Tikka, Lamb Nehari, and Pilau Rice are standouts that should not be missed, and the Mango Lassi is a perfect accompaniment. While the Keema Cheese Nan did not meet expectations, the overall experience, coupled with fair pricing, makes Shahi Masala a worthy destination for anyone looking to enjoy authentic Indian cuisine. I look forward to returning and trying more of their extensive menu, hopeful that the keema cheese nan was just an off day in an otherwise exemplary kitchen.