With Two Weeks until retirement, Hector was delighted to find a Congratulatory Card in the pigeon hole today from a former colleague. The card contained Funds towards a Curry. Thank you, Liz.
The Shenaz (17 Granville Street, Glasgow, G3 7EE) is always held in high regard being one of Glasgow’s longest established Curry Houses. Sticking with the tradition of table-cloths and possessing a drinks license, different from the Curry Cafes that tend to sell more Contemporary Cuisine. However, the Menu has a sprinkling of Desi Dishes, when Dr. Stan had the Special Beef a couple of years back this was a standout.
Arriving at Charing Cross @16.30, Masala Zing was the intended port of call. (Hari, I will visit soon, I know I am overdue a visit to the Punjabi.) Masala Zing was – Closed Today. Akbar’s was a possibility, but this is a better Venue in Company. The Shenaz is always open late afternoon and the welcome is always a warm one. Hector was taken to the same table from which the majority of The Shenaz Reviews have been compiled, far corner, right, a table for Two. There were Two Fellow Diners initially, as the clock approached 17.00 so more folk arrived.
The Special Beef was also available as Special Lamb et al, this had not been noticed before. The attraction of this Dish is the stated Methi. Mushroom Jeera Rice would accompany, no Starters. Once again Hector was ordering a la Carte, eschewing the offer on the Pre-theatre Menu.
The wait was well within acceptable parameters. First glance at the Special Lamb, still far too Wet! The Masala was Thin, but at least it was Methi Rich. There was still hope for something outstanding. The Lamb was Plentiful, Good-sized pieces of Soft Lamb in double figures. It had to be Rice for this style of Curry, the Cumin added an extra dimension.
The Spice Level was more than adequate – a Two Nose Curry. Think about it. Very little Seasoning had been used in the creation this Dish, a pity, it definitley needed more.
As ever, the Curry was accompanied by The Bits – Coconut, Pineapple, Spiced Onion and Fresh Tomato. The Latter Two gave a Varity of Texture when added to the side of the plate.
Hector has had Outstanding Curry served at The Shenaz, today’s was not. Maybe a more regular attendance would increase familiarity and hence the chance of Bespoke Cuisine.
The Bill
£14.25. Thanks again, Liz!
The Aftermath
A couple of The Waiters recognised me and so I thought it was time for a Staff Photo. Most obliged. These Chaps have been here for years.
It has not been hard to spot the uncertainties in recent visits to this Fine Restaurant. Later on at The State Bar, Jamie had his first experience of Oakham Green Devil, whilst John and I discussed Café Salma/Masala Zing. John had noticed a similarity to the livery of Masala Twist. The same Family?
We have both enjoyed our Masala Zing Curry in recent weeks, the Café Salma Chef has been working here still.
Is Masala Zing closed permanently? Also, the Café Salma sign is also on display outside. Another transformation?
… and Jamie went for Curry afterwards, to the Punjabi Charing Cross, he was impressed.