2A-2B, Ball St, Sheffield S3 8DB (Kelham Island).

Lets set the record straight – If I can afford to eat here, its cheap enough. I spent £16.50 inclusive of one alcoholic drink and a thali.

So here it goes, my first blog post about food, ever.

The Bhaji Shop Cafe gives off Indian Street food vibes with a worldly twist.  When you first walk in you are invited by bright colours reminiscent of indian tuk tuks, tiled tables, twinkling fairy lights, brick walls and patterned fabrics. It has a very bohemian feel to it. it’s quirky, warm and inviting. The selection of beer, lager and wine is well picked and not overwhelming. I had Vedett Blonde. Great start, I say!

Then things only got better: I was presented with a paper menu consisting of  only 3 main options which is great for the fellow indecisive beings. These options change from day to day. On the menu was Lamb Kheema (Keema!?) Pea and Potato Curry,  a Fish option and a Malaysian Veg Rendang. A small range of  forever-changing Tapas is also available if you don’t fancy the Thali or subsequently,  if you have the appetite of a Canadian Moose you may want to order both the Thali and Tapas. Not to mention the pickle trays and the Bhajis as part of the starter menu.

After absolutely no deliberation I ordered the Lamb Kheema Thali – it did take a small while to arrive (around 40 minutes) but when it did HOLY SWEET BEAUTIFUL MOLY. I was presented with a large round brown wooden plate thingy consisting of 3 tapas dishes: one with the lamb Kheema curry, one with rice and one with Dhal Chickpeas surrounded with homemade naan bread and mango chutney, pickled cabbage and salad. If heaven came in the form of a brown tapa dish filled with lamb, peas, potatoes and spices then this was it.  The meat was aromatic but had a distinct burnt out hint of spice. I was in my element taking in every bite of the succulent, tender and perfectly spiced chunks of lamb, the sweet and tangy mango chutney and dipping the naan bread in the tasty spiced dhal chickpeas whilst washing it all down with Vedett Blonde. The food was fresh and cooked amazingly well considering the restaurant was fully booked.

The Bhaji Shop Thali Cafe blows my mind and has fast became my favourite eat stop in Sheffield. The enthusiasm of the team is evident; with a happy work force, a genuine care about guests and the serving up of great food.

Atmosphere: 8/10
Food Taste: 9.5/10
Food Quality: 9/10
Value for money: 9/10