The Main Event would be held this afternoon in Paisley, a Barrel Party, Curry-Heute was planned for afterwards. With Lord Clive of Crawley in tow, I headed late morning for suitable Bunkers, a Snack; we were just too late for the Breakfast. Unbelievably, Babu Bombay Street Kitchen (186 West Regent St, Glasgow, G2 4RU) has not been visited since January 2015. Now in their fourth year of operation, this business is popping up in Glasgow Pubs in addition to the Mela at Kelvingrove Park.
The Lady front of house made us aware of the Menu on the table as opposed to the banners hanging above the counter which I have previously relied upon. I drew Clive’s attention to the Wraps as he enjoyed one in my company in Crawley’s own Fat Boy’s Joint last year. Chicken Curry Wrap (£6.60) ticked some boxes. Hector having Chicken Curry? Hector having a Wrap? Glasgow needs a Falafel House serving – Proper – Pitta Bread.
The Lone Diners sat at the small window table, comfort is not a feature of a visit to Babu. Once can only imagine what would happen if the chairs piled outside the door were brought in. The target business evidently remains the Lunchtime Trade from the surrounding offices.
Two Wraps in foil were presented. The photo of the interior may not do the Wrap justice. Now the matter of how to eat one. As soon as I tried to lift it, the Juices ran out the base, a Mayonnaise like liquid, from here came the Flavour. The Spice Level was Modest, the Roti started to fall apart. Determined not to lose this precious liquid a fork was employed. The Lettuce, Onion and Coriander offered the required Diversity, for me the Chicken did little. We have heard this before.
Clive was not saying much, deep in concentration, eventually:
That was excellent, very, very good.
I think he enjoyed it. A visit here could be the precursor to other Main Events in the West of Scotland. Next time I will have to consider the Bhuna or Keema.
The Bill
£13.20. £6.60 a pop does feel bit steep, a 33.3% price increase since Visit #1 three years ago.
The Aftermath
Paisley took longer than anticipated, there was no Curry-Heute, other than that which was consumed here.
Tomorrow is another day.
Update
At some point in 2019, the premises on West Regent St. closed. The business then moved to The Arches at weekends, and weekdays in Shawlands. Talking with – Babu – at G-RAF 2022, she told me that she operates from a Cheese Shop on Pollokshaws Rd., The Arches is no more. Additionally, Babu is available for hire at events such as the Glasgow Real Ale Festival.
In 2022 the city centre premises became Bombaywalla – Indian Street Kitchen, the two business are not connected.
