Halal Kebab House (164 Albert Drive, Glasgow, G41 2N6) was first visited in the early days of Curry-Heute, 2011. The following year I met the Proprietor – Hassan – at certain Curry Awards, he won an Award, Hector didn’t.
The venue felt much brighter than I recall from last time. With four tables seating twelve in total, this remains primarily a Takeaway. One Chap became a Fellow Diner as I left. I was impressed by the steady turnover given that it was nearing mid-afternoon. Chips & Cheese, popular with the Young and Old, alike.
Entering just after 14.00, the Young Chap behind the Counter looked familiar, it was Hassan, though I did have to check, there was no obvious photo from the Awards Night.
I declared that I was here on a Mission of Exploration. A Handful of Curry Dishes were on display under the Counter. I enquired about Lamb. There was Lamb Curry, but no mention of – Desi – as last time. A Plate of Okra was adjacent. I couldn’t tell if this was Okra with Meat, or simply Okra Curry, it was the latter. I asked for a Half Portion but was informed this was not possible. (Why?)
Two Portions it was then. Chapattis (50p) would accompany. I helped myself to a Bottle of Fizz from the Fridge, no Sparkling Water.
During the wait I introduced myself. The Award is displayed proudly on the wall. I mentioned that I had spotted an assassination of these premises on a Media Website which strongly favoured their Nearest Neighbour. Hassan dismissed any fears of such tactics. They are all trying to make a living.
A Polystyrene Container with Salad on One Side and Raita on The Other signalled the presentation of The Curry. A Brown Bag was placed on a Paper Setting on which were placed the Chapattis. Two Plates of Curry completed the Order. The Lamb Curry looked – Red-ish – a Traditional Curry with an Onion and Tomato-based Masala, a Rich Looking Masala which was definitely Tomato-rich.
A Strip off the ample Chapatti was dipped. This was very pleasant. I had asked for – Medium with a Kick – this hit – The Spot. Tender Lamb, a decent portion, I wondered if I should eat all before addressing the Okra. Sense prevailed.
Hassan had asked if I wished the Lamb and Okra to be Combined at the point of serving. Fortunately I had declined to accept this, Two discrete Curry Portions are better than One. The Okra was softer than I prefer (al dente). The Mash contained Tomato also, however the distinctive Flavour of Okra dominated. There was a Slight Sweetness.
The Lamb Curry was finished and Four-Fifths of the Okra. Hector is a One and a Half Chapatti Man. Nobody makes Half Chapattis. Except for those who sell the Micro Ones, I suppose. The Salad and Raita remained untouched.
A Lady Customer waiting for her Large Donner, enquired as to my enjoyment of the Okra.
Did you not like your Ladyfingers?
Yes, but an entire portion was too much. I had Lamb too. She probably couldn’t see the empty Lamb Bowl stacked under the Okra Bowl.
I don’t just like Meat and Sauce, I prefer a Vegetable too.
I’m the same – she replied.
The Bill
£14.00. Two Curry Portions.
The Aftermath
Still no Photo of Hassan, he’s too modest.
I promised to return within Three Years and then explored nearby.
The Nearest Neighbour is Lahore Kebab House which has a Full Menu including Karahi.
Around the corner I solved the mystery of the Flashy Venue called – Red Pepper. No Curry found.