In a beautifully bonkers reflection of the cultural diversity of the local area, Mughal-e-Azam occupies a former church in Sparkhill. The menu focuses on Mughal cuisine, and the influence extends to the interiors – with classical art motifs adorning the walls, the ceiling and even represented in the star shape of the counter in the dining room’s centre.
Food is for feasting; the menu incorporates saucy dishes dressed with creamy nut-based gravies and studded with dried fruits and all kinds of kebabs. Much is made with meat, but veggies and pescetarians won’t fare too badly.
The Mughals were all about excess, and so should you be if you’re eating at Mughal-e-Azam (‘The Emperor’s Table’). Don’t stick with a salad, rather, spend £7.45 on a rib-sticking Pakistani special such as the meat-and-wheat porridge, haleem, or even creamy lamb brain masala if you’re feeling brave.
This kind of environment suits sharing dishes that have a sense of ceremony – an amply-spiced kilo bowl of lamb or chicken karahi (£24.95 or £19.95) scooped mouthwards with pieces torn from various tender breads is just the thing to bring a family together.
If you enjoy a drink, take note – the only thing missing on the mile-long menu is alcohol, so if you forget to BYO, a lassi or a juice will just have to do the job.