Sunday afternoon was spent enjoying a long and leisurely lunch at Blaze, the latest venture from the brothers Bhola Prasad and Kumar Sunil. Chef Bhola has international cooking experience so can create dishes from almost anywhere in the world, while his brother is the front-of-house maestro who welcomes everyone with a smile and who can discuss any part of your meal, whether it is where the meat was sourced from, the herbs and spices used or why they decided to simplify their menu after the agony of Covid, and all while he can mix you a bespoke cocktail or a Moroccan Tea, writes Michael Holland.
We began with a medley of starters comprising of: Hummus, Baba Ghanoush, Falafel (all home made), Mixed Olives, Tempura Prawn (the batter so light and crispy I could live on them forever), Vegetable Spring Rolls and various salads and sauces for dipping.
There was a lot of delicious food to get through but we had allocated ourselves plenty of time so as not to rush. My companion, Nina, between almost every mouthful, was full of praise for the olives, and the home made delights. And while we savoured the marvellous mezze our host was talking us through how the flavours had been created, and how the chef would give little twists to classic dishes to make them his own. Educational eating is the future!
While we had a break between courses, Kumar brought us up to speed on the changes since our last visit. He talks with such passion for food that I can’t wait to go back with more diners to try the lamb dishes that feed a whole table and have to be ordered in advance to allow for the hours of slow cooking needed to leave the meet falling away from the bone. He almost talked me into coming to a Shisha night to have a go on the bubbly-bubbly pipe – And I haven’t smoked for years!
After a decent time we were ready for the main course. Kumar had convinced Nina that she should have the Vegan Burger, a monster of a thing made from a spicy blend of sweetcorn. Kidney beans, peas and potatoes, which to a carnivore may sound horrific, but she absolutely loved the flavours that the combination made.
I had a selection of kebabs (Chicken, Lamb. Kofta), which were all perfectly grilled while still leaving the meat moist and not dried out. And our main man also brought a side order of Marinated Chicken Wings, which were just as good.
Kumar did try to tempt us into a dessert but we knew we could not eat any more. What he did convince us to try was his Moroccan Tea. A subtle blend of mint and other herbs(that he kept secret), with the smallest pinch of sugar, that felt and tasted very cleansing. Ideal for settling the stomach after a good.
Perfect for groups and families.
Blaze, 5 Lambarde Square, Greenwich, London SE10 9GB
Daily : 12pm – 11.30pm
http://www.theblaze.uk/ – 020 8066 1199
Two people with water and beer. £75
Photos: M. Holland
