Perfect Rack
It’s a simple concept but with infinite possibilities: take all the tastiest animals from cow to prawn, and make them divine by using flavours, marinades, herbs and spices from global influences. Rakonto, on the Hockley strip, has a flavour-scope that spans the Far East to the Far West. The staff kindly explained the menu and flavour combinations and were very helpful throughout the night, making sure that we had everything that we needed. I like a good bit of service, so was properly impressed.[caption id="attachment_1453" align="alignleft" width="341"]
Lamb Chops[/caption]
The sides - which can double up as starters if you wish - can be ordered alongside your meat selection. We chose corn on the cob, grilled vegetables, hummus and fries (all £2.95). A little corn with the cajun chicken, a little hummus on a herby lamb chop - don’t mind if I do.
We selected several starter portions to create our main meal. The lamb chops (£5.25) were succulent and moist. Just a little charred on the outside giving a lovely bbq flavour, the use of mint was obvious but the hint of tarragon in the marinade made for a more fragrant flavour. The Thai-style tiger prawns (£5.50) were stylishly presented, butterflied down the back with the shell still on. The vegetarian choice of paneer tikka (£5.95) came in huge slabs, a brilliant crimson red from the tandoori masala marinade. The halloumi (£5.95) was soft, creamy and flavoured with the herbs of the Mediterranean. The pork ribs (£4.95) were sticky with hoisin sauce and had plenty of meat on each one.
Two small lemon hand wipes each were just enough for us to remove all evidence from our fingertips. If you like a little bit of everything then the grand feast mix grill platter (£13.95) is the obvious option. Designed for two to share it boasts pork ribs, beef steak, lamb chops, cajun chicken, piri-piri chicken wings and prawns. We saw the platters coming proudly out of the kitchen and the grand feast is definitely true to its name.
It has a spacious feel with a focus on lighting to create different moods around the restaurant. The top level, where the bar
[caption id="attachment_1451" align="alignright" width="215"]
Tikka Paneer[/caption]
is situated, offers a brighter, more lively experience. The bottom level offers something a little more intimate and restaurantesque for those that fancy a ‘proper’ meal out. You’re not going to break the bank here, and if you’re a meat lover
but want something beyond your usual steak and chips then head down, they’ll take very good care of you.
We have a favour to ask
LeftLion is Nottingham’s meeting point for information about what’s going on in our city, from the established organisations to the grassroots. We want to keep what we do free to all to access, but increasingly we are relying on revenue from our readers to continue. Can you spare a few quid each month to support us?
