Dr. Robin and Hector have been acquainted for well over a decade, today was the first time he ever made contact on matters other than Real Ale. It is Glasgow Curry Week, Dr. Robin decided that if he did not indulge this week, then when? Having studied T’Internet, Dr. Robin found it difficult to find a list of Participating Restaurants, and also what would make this week Special. Dr. Robin contacted The Hector early afternoon, intent on going for Curry-Heute. It was agreed he would wait until 20.00 when Hector returned from the Ale Festival at the World Famous – Staggs – in Musselburgh.
Karahi Palace (51 – 53 Nelson Street, Glasgow, G5 8DZ) is Hector’s preferred venue having been to Staggs, Dr. Robin was fetched from the nearby Laurieston, former Glasgow POTY. The illuminations at Karahi Palace are still not fully restored, however, given Maximum Darkness, they still light up Nelson Street. The above poster was not on display here.
Ayaz, Mein Host, and Qaiser were nowhere to be seen. Chef Rashid beamed as I walked in. It was another Chap who came to serve us, offering Menus. These were declined, I went up to the counter and confirmed with Rashid, two – Lamb Karahi (£7.90) on-the-bone, extra Methi, two Chapattis (£0,70).
Five Chaps were finishing an array of Dishes at the two core tables, no sign of Pizza or Donner Kebap, just authentic Desi Cuisine, this was why we were here. Dr. Robin has limited experience of Glasgow Curry Houses. His earlier research as to what may constitute Glasgow’s Top Ten had been inconclusive. He suspected that other Sources may be less than reliable. Having studied Curry-Heute he soon picked upon the number of Hector Reviews/Visits to the Curry Houses of Glasgow, and beyond. If Hector has only been – Once – then that tells its own story.
Dr. Robin was prepared for what he was about to receive. I described – The Ballast – that is served in too many Interpretations of this Dish across the Continent. He commented that if the Dish is called – Karahi – and the Restaurant is called – Karahi – they must know what they are doing here.
The Lamb Karahi were brought with one Chapatti, halved, to start. Number two Chapatti would arrive after we were tucked in. The Lamb – on-the-bone – stood Proud. I suspect this was the first time Dr. Robin would have eaten – on-the-bone. Too hot to handle, I suggested he start by spooning the Thick Masala-mash from the base of the Karahi. Very tasty – was Dr. Robin’s immediate take.
In the six weeks since I last enjoyed Lamb Karahi at Karahi Palace, Hector has been to Curry Houses in Polska, Deutschland, England and Scotland. Nothing was as Wonderful as this, yet Karahi Palace has no chance of ever winning Best in Glasgow. Dr. Robin agreed, it should not be about Ambience, just about the Quality of The Curry. Dr. Robin had also read my belief that – Chicken – does not Curry. We were in agreement again. We are in the Minority.
The Lamb was Magnificently Tender. I held up a Sucky Bone and explained – It is the Bone Marrow which all the difference to the Overall Flavour. The Seasoning was Perfect, Rashid knows how Hector wants his Curry. Chopped Green Chillies permeated the Masala-mash, just on the edge of Demanding, a Perfect Spice Level – not OTT – I noted as I ate.
Extremely tasty – was Dr. Robin’s verdict. He also commented on just how well pitched the Spice Level was – Not OTT – his very words.
Qaiser appeared from who knows where. The Young Spanish Lady cleared the table. More Customers had arrived. All was well at Karahi Palace.
The Bill
£17.20. Did they put the prices up last month when the new Menu was published? The Lamb Karahi is now 10p cheaper!
The Aftermath
Walking back across the Clyde, the Supermoon was Obscured by Clouds. Dr. Robin effectively asked – what has Glasgow Curry Week done for us? We have no Kids (to eat for free). He thought – New Dishes – might be on offer. But given the – Glasgow Palate – as reported by Just Eat here, maybe not.
Dr. Robin is keen to join Hector again on Wednesday.