A stalwart of Brick Lane’s frenetic curry house scene since 1974, Sheba is a family business and balti specialist with a fondness for seafood. It offers one of the biggest selections in the neighbourhood, from king prawn malabar with green chillis and coconut cream to barbecued sea bass smeared with spicy paste. Away from the sea, mains might see murg masala (chicken cooked with minced lamb and eggs) or the lethal ‘Bollywood blast’ – lamb with an assortment of super-hot chillis. Spread over two floors, this 100-seater gives satisfaction to the crowds of tourists, shoppers and spice fans who descend on the area. Larger groups should take advantage of the special fixed-price deal, which offers a main course, rice or naan, poppadums and a drink for just £15 a head.