As I got to the front of the queue, the grill came into sight. Purists might take the view that seekh kebab and chicken tikka ought to be prepared in a tandoor, but I didn't really mind that it was done on a grill. Taking my cue from the regulars in front of me, I went for the mixed roll (£3.50). I looked on as chunks of juicy chicken tikka were combined with moist seekh kebab in a freshly griddled paratha with salad and raita.
I couldn't wait to tuck in, so I sat down at one of the plastic tables at the side of the stall. As I unwrapped the roll and took a bite, I found myself transported to a faraway land. Sadly this fantasy was somewhat ruined by the grey skies and the pitter-patter of raindrops on the protective canopy. Mind you, the typical British weather didn't detract from this most excellent lunchtime treat.
K & K doesn't limit itself to the grill, as it also offers a selection of biryanis and starters such as onion bhajis and samosas. I sampled a vegetable samosa but to be honest it wasn't much cop. Mind you, I didn't give that much of a toss as it only cost 80p.
So where is this amazing stall? Tooting, Southall, Wembley, or perhaps somewhere in the East End? In actual fact none of those places, and strictly speaking, it isn't even in London. I could keep you guessing but I'd doubt that you'd get the right answer.
That's because K & K Fresh Foods is based just outside Zone 6 in Staines. It's such a shame that there aren't more street food stalls like this one, as let's face it, Ali G's hometown is a bit out of the way. In the meantime, I just might try and find an excuse to visit our Staines office on a more regular basis.
K & K Fresh Foods, Staines Market, High St, Staines, Middlesex
Open on market days: Mondays, Wednesdays and Saturdays
Nearest rail: Staines
Can't go wrong with well marinated meat and a hot grill. I guess weather could be worse these days.
ReplyDeleteThis reminded me about another post I read. Apparently, two Britons set up a stall in Singapore selling 'authentic' fish and chips (must be tired of those trying to pass off as such). The author was tucking in and thought that all he needed was the 'dreadful British weather' to complete the experience. Oh well, you can't have all I guess.
Blimey, you do travel to some exotic places :p
ReplyDeleteThat looks like some industrial sized street food place. I didn't realise it was in such demand in Staines...?!
ReplyDeleteLChow - I think the weather is why we don't have more street food in the UK.
ReplyDeletekake - now, now, don't mock Staines or the Westside Massive will be on your case!
Tom - I couldn't quite believe it either, as other than a decent Korean joint (for the benefit of the local Samsung office), Staines is a bit of a culinary desert.
It was hugely popular too and no doubt if it was in a trendier area then it'd be the kind of place that people would scream about from the rooftops.
Damn, just a wee bit too far to go for lunch from Clerkenwell. I think subcontinental street food is so often overlooked in favour of more easterly fare. This sounds great, add in some fresh pakora, potato cakes and chickpea concoctions and I would be in seventh heaven.
ReplyDeleteDuring the summer, Delhi Grill restaurant sets up a similar grill stall on Sundays in Chapel Market (Islington). So for those who can't make it to Staines, maybe Angel Islington would work better. : )
ReplyDeleteGworm - What would be great is if a snack stall selling these treats sets up next to this place in Staines!
ReplyDeleteA-in-L - I don't think it's too controversial to say, that for many, Islington is a much easier proposition than Staines on so many levels!