Hector Naypals had extended invitations to avoid dining alone this evening, nay luck, nay pals.
The Akash (45 Sinclair St, Helensburgh, G84 8TG) is typically visited monthly. The Thursday evening commitment has seen me arrive at 18.00 traditionally and rush down the Curry, The New Regime open at 16.00, a much more sensible time for the Early Diner. With the £15.00 Thursday Offer – order a la carte – all you wish, there was time for a Starter. I was almost tempted to go for the Tandoori Mix Combo, next time, which may well be very soon. Lamb Tikka would suffice.
Irfan greeted me warmly on entry, he was manning the shop, no sign of Ashgar. Irfan would mention more than once that I had not let them know I was coming, so nothing Special was waiting for The Hector. I fancied a change from the usual Hector Special – Intensely Rich Karahi Gosht thick with Spinach and Methi. Lamb Achari? This would kick off The Achari Weekend as will be unfolded. Mushroom Rice to accompany, – No Paratha? Asked Irfan. No Shami Kebab? This is not your normal.
Three Lovely Pieces of Lamb Tikka were presented. One has to wonder if the covering is commercial Tikka Paste or if they make their own. There was a Subtle Kick and the Seasoning was spot on. The Coating was Thick and Tasty, the Lamb Succulent beyond belief. I could even be tempted to have this as the basis for Curry, but still prefer Tender Lamb in the hope that it has absorbed the Spices. This was devoured, should I ask for another? Maybe for Dessert? Maybes.
Opting for Achari means that Copious Masala is inevitable, hence the Rice. The Rice gave the impression of being Very Fresh, were the Mushrooms tinned, or fresh and boiled? 
The Topping looked Special, but was sadly lost in the decanting. The Masala turned out to be suitably Thicker than most Mainstream Restaurants, The Akash rarely fails to impress, this Achari had the Citrus Bite but was under-seasoned for my taste. Still, it packed a Punch, the Pickle being apparent but not overwhelming.
The Lamb was wonderful, the minimum of chewing was required yet this was nowhere near the Pulp that is served from The Curry Pot in too many Venues. This was a Very Good Curry.
With plenty of time I ordered a White Coffee. Served steaming hot this was perfect. Irfan brought an abundance of Chocolate Mints, it isn’t a Wednesday, it would be rude not to…
The Bill
£18.50. Sparkling Water and Coffee are not included in the flat fee.
The Aftermath
Further Chocolate was declined.
The order was given for Saturday. The Hector Special #2 – Methi Karahi Gosht Achari on-the-bone, for Two. I’ve found a Pal.