Polau in Hamburg

Tucked away in the not-so-central area of Bahrenfeld, and away from the hustle and bustle of typical going-out areas of Hamburg, Polau offers a different and less standardised version of Asian food. This is in fact a more rustic, family run restaurant. First off, you will be impressed with how poky the place is, virtually the size of a living room, with very few tables and with the kitchen/bar area in open view. The interior is decorated with taste, in a simple but homely fashion, quite a bit away from your typical Indian or Pakistani restaurant. As for the food, the range on offer is not so wide, but that's a welcome side effect of dining at a small, simple and independent restaurant. On the many occasions we went, we truly loved Polau's own Lamb korma and their Scampi Madras. And, before I forget, their mango chutney dip that came with the poppadoms. Also, if you fancy a starter, do try their veggie pakoras, which are made on the spot and taste a million miles away from the usual pre-packed stuff. The house wine is reasonably priced for Germany, but don't expect connoisseur's quality. The strongest positive is the personalised attention you get from staff. Polite and attentive, the owner and the waiters will always make sure you're ok and will ask you exactly how spicy you want your order. On the weak side is their bread. Don't expect proper naan, as the only thing bread on display is some sort of semi-chapati, but not even that - some kind of small flat bread. Only order it if you can't have your curry without anything called "bread" (like me). Final remark on the music. Again, unlike most Indian/Pakistani restaurants, at Polau there's an old turntable where the music played in the background is a general range of US country/folk/crooners (from Elvis to Dolly Parton and various lesser known US singers). Very David Lynch. Quite a kitsch but definitely cosy element to your experience.