That’s What Cheating Gets Ya…

For lunch today, we decided to cheat on our beloved Om Sweets.  A new place had opened up down the street, exotically named “Bengali Sweets,” so we had to go check it out.  As I cycled by our usual lunchtime destination, my heart skipped a beat…could I really do this to a trusted friend?  All was forgotten when we pulled into the inappropriately-sized parking lot of the new establishment.  For a place that seats a maximum of fifty, did the parking lot really need to be a kilometre long?  I guess so.

I was immediately enthralled by the sheer number of sugary delicacies that are so common in Indian sweet shops.  At that point, my stomach wasn’t even thinking about masala and chilis…it had gone straight to dessert.

The menu was like a novel.  Must’ve had about six folds and was filled back-to-front – everything from South Indian, North Indian, Tandoori, Pizza, Sandwiches, Pasta, Desserts, Sweets, Soups, Cakes, and Sundaes.  The opportunities were seemingly endless, but I had to make a choice because time was of the essence.  I ended up going with a grilled sandwich and malai paneer tikka.  For those wondering why I would have a sandwich in India, the answer is simple:  I’ve eaten Indian food everyday for the past six months…it is nice to have a break every once and a while).

While waiting for our food to come, something about the venue struck me as odd.  Was that “I’m just dyin’ in your arms tonight, must’ve been something you said…” playing in the background?  Next up, a little “Sexual Healing,” followed by “You’re Still the One” by Shania Twain.  What a collection of classics the radio station was playing.  But why in a Bengali Sweets shop, especially when the TV was playing Bollywood music videos?

I all but devoured my food when it came…dessert was just too important on this day.  When the time came, I could feel the pressure.  With over a hundred to choose from, would I make the right choice?  I went with Ras Malai for comparison purposes (I eat it everyday at Om Sweets) and Chana Toast.

Was I impressed?  Hardly.  The place may get an A+ for “new and exciting things that we’ve never seen because we only eat at one restaurant every single day for lunch,” but the food was second rate at best.  Sure, the menu was big, the music was solid, and the sweets endless, but there is no way it makes up for the cozy atmosphere and friendly service you get at Om Sweets.  I’m not sure I can face my trusted friend knowing what I have done.  I hope she takes me back.