A year and five days have passed since Hector last set foot in Charcoals (26A Renfield St, Glasgow, G2 1LU). The place was empty when I entered at 15.10, Hector knows that arriving any later, especially on a Friday, there would be no chance of a table without a reservation. Dr. Rick and Hector were denied access one Friday tea-time some years back. Mein Host was nowhere to be seen, the Young Waiter greeted me with – I need my table back at half past four.
On recent visits, recent? On previous visits, Mein Host has showered me with Complimentary Poppadoms, Starters, The Works such that the appetite has been impaired before the Main Course. Being Anonymous today, I would finally be able to fully appraise the Lamb Desi (£9.95) and Mushroom Pilau (£3.25). It’s on-the-bone – I was advised. That’s OK, can I have extra Methi please?
You have a very good idea about Indian food. Fair comment.
Dr. Rick, now Jason
This morning Yvonne posted a photo on a well known Medium from a few years back, it featured Dr. Rick. Dr. Rick is no longer with us, at Charcoals his memory is recorded for all time. Whilst I waited for my Curry, the same Medium brought my attention to serious news about Jason, Landlord at The State Bar. This is worrying, nay, shocking. Charcoals.
Back to the Trivia
The Mushroom Pilau came in the same Metal Pot in which many venues present their Mains. There was Mountain of Rice, rich in Mushroom and Onion. There was certainly enough for two people. This, I believe, is the first time I have ordered Rice at Charcoals, I have been overdosed with Breads on previous visits.
The plentiful Tender Lamb was decanted, the photo ritual completed. There was much more than just Lamb and Masala here. Topped with crunchy Spring Onions, more Mushrooms, Whole Chillies, Tomatoes and a Vegetable I could not identify, were mixed through the Thick Masala. Khadu was a possibility, whatever, these were welcome inclusions, a Variety of Vegetables is always welcomed, and no sign of the Nasty Ballast.
The Bones were few, the meat content more than Sufficient. Although there was a decent Earthy Flavour from the Lamb Desi, there was a distinct need for more Seasoning. The Spice Level was not noted initially, when I came across the Chillies so the impact was registered. A Big Hit!
Although the Rice proved to be a good decision, I was still left wondering what could have been. The Lamb Desi was better than Mainstream. Charcoals has graduated to the list of Glasgow’s Top Rated, there is better Curry available in this City. However, in the City Centre proper, this has to be the Best Venue.
The Bill
£15.70. The Sparkling Water was £2.50.
The Aftermath
The table was given up at 16.10 by which time other Diners were arriving.
It was quite a subdued night at The State Bar.