It took Hector an hour to drive across the City of Glasgow from one extremity to the other. Maya, in Giffnock, occupies the premises of the former Wok Way. The reviews elsewhere are Generous. One day Hector will find out if they are justified, but not on a Tuesday, I learned the hard way.
In Glasgow, there’s always somewhere else
Deira Lahore (631 Cathcart Rd., Glasgow, G42 8AE) is a well established Takeaway (primarily) in Govanhill/Crosshill on Glasgow’s Southside, in business for seven years. There are three tables with seats for twelve in total. One suspects they are not often used, however The Hector seeks a place to sit.
Curry was advertised on the exterior signage, posters on the interior walls advertised various Chicken Dishes and Kebabs. The illuminated boards behind The counter showed the array of burgers, Kebabs and Pizza. Where would we be without Pizza? No Curry?
The Curry was on display under the counter, a Lamb Dish which looked Rich and Dry immediately became the focus of attention. The Young Chap behind the counter was busy serving … preparing a Pizza. I asked of I could take a seat. Moments later he addressed me, I was invited to look at the Curry Display, Lamb with Okra. There was a Chicken Karahi, Kofta with Egg Shorba, Chana, Daal. There was something for everyone who likes – Desi.
I asked for a Portion of Lamb with Okra and two Chapattis. I was advised this would take five to ten minutes.
Business was brisk, loadsa’ Pizza going out the door. Is there something I’m missing in life?
An Elder Chap, who would turn out to be Mein Host, called me up to the counter. Two Chapattis were presented on a plastic plate. Moments later the Curry. A customer brought me some serviettes, no cutlery, none required, this Curry would be Thick enough to eat without.
I would consider the Chapattis to be nearer Roti as they started to Crisp, slightly.
Those who do not enjoy Oily Desi Curry should avoid Deira Lahore. The Lamb was on-the-bone and there wasn’t much of it, however, I have learned that in this part of Glasgow it is easy to ask for a bigger portion and pay more accordingly. Still, this was bigger than any Tapas Portion and would no doubt be cheaper. There was a lot of Okra which was Soft but on the right side of Mush. The Kick was sufficient, the Seasoning – Fine. The Masala was not excessive. A Desi Curry to be sure. A very familiar overall Flavour. Had I been blindfolded and told I was in the nearby Sheerin Palace I would have believed this, praise indeed.
A Local entered and called out what sounded like – Shahed. The Young Chap, who will now be referred to as – Shahed – re-appeared from the back-shop. Between customers I managed a Cchat. He has worked here almost from the start. The Lone Diner was made to feel welcome.
Finishing the fifth piece of Lamb on-the-bone and staring at the plentiful Okra, the words Lamb and Kofta came to mind. I asked for a Portion of Kofta with Egg and another Chapatti.
I’m enjoying your Food – I assured Shahed. I was.
A Portion is Four Koftas – I was informed. Perfect for Curry #2.
I decided during a lull that this was a good time to introduce myself. This facilitated the Photos.
The Masala accompanying the Kofta was Thin, Shorba. Once again the Kick was there, and The Seasoning was Superb. The Masala was genuinely full of Flavour. Splitting the Koftas in half to prolong the pleasure, they looked Pale. Not Vegetable Koftas, surely? I had to ask. Shahed thought they were Chicken and called to the rear to verify this. Hector was eating Chicken Kofta, and enjoying it! I feel a Lamb Overdose is now required, watch this space.
This was simple, tasty Curry, served with a positive attitude. If you don’t get it right in this area then your business would not survive Seven years. After-all, what did happen to VIP Taste two doors away?
The Bill
£11.00. A Good Feed in the end.
The Aftermath
Mein Host took the Cash. He offered me a Takeaway Menu, the Curry List at last! I note that Desi Breakfast is available on Saturdays and Sundays. I congratulated Mein Host on the Quality of Curry served and on his seven years in business. He told me there are some thirty Takeaways within a mile radius of these premises.
I wish you well – was my parting comment. So many venues, yet the Northwest of the City has nothing like this, with seats.
Update November 2016:
Waris, of Desi – Curry Palace and Lasani Grill fame, has taken over this venue.
There shall be more…