Namak Mandi (21-23 Bridge St, Glasgow G5 9JB) was recently recommended to Hector by Yousaf at Annaya’s Grill House (Helensburgh). The premises are not where I thought. I assumed Namak Mandi would occupy the conversion opposite The Laurieston on Bridge Street, instead, this business has replaced a well established Grill House. Namak Mandi is presently Glasgow’s second outlet for Afghani Cuisine. Bridge St. Subway Station means it is much more accessible than The Khyber Pass Restaurant, they could do well.
I arrived back from seeing Premiata Forneria Marconi (PFM) performing last night in Brescia later than planned. The Italian Air Traffic Controllers did their best to delay the flight. It was 15.50 when I entered the premises to find a couple of Chaps squatted on a Dais, the tables were unoccupied. A Young Waiter let me choose my seat. He brought the simple Menu, an A4 card, printed on both sides.
Immediately I spotted an anomaly. The online Menu features – Special Namak Handi Lamb Karahi (½kg) (11.99), this was not listed in house. I asked the Waiter, he deferred to Mein Host having admitted that he was new and could not answer my question.
I was assured I desired the Lamb Charsi Karahi (£11.99), again the half kilo was promised. A Chilli Naan (£1.50) would accompany along with a 330ml Bottle of Sparkling Water (£1.00).
I had time to note other features of the Menu. Dampokht (Dum Pukht) requires three hours notice. One day I may discover if this is a Karahi variant, or an elaborate – Soupy Stew – as served at Fat Boys’ Joint (Crawley). Namkeen Karahi (£11.95) is also on offer, next time. Breads appear to be at a favourable price: Keema Naan (£2.50) and Roti (£0.70). Plain Rice is £2.50.
The décor at Namak Mandi is bright and airy. This is a cut above the – Cafe – style venues common in Glasgow’s Southside, though retains an informal air. There is an open kitchen, I could observe all of the activity from my seat. A large Takeaway was being prepared, for whom I never discovered.
The Waiter brought a very Robust Salad and two bowls of Dips, generous portions for the Lone Diner. I thoroughly enjoyed the Salad, everything was Freshly cut, the Red Dip was suitably Spicy, the Raita quite Tasty. Filling myself with Salad was not today’s objective, I stopped after an elegant sufficiency had been consumed.
Lamb Charsi Karahi
Topped with Ginger Strips and Fresh Coriander, this looked almost identical to that served around the corner at the Karahi Palace. The Dish was the same make, size, was this actually a Half Kilo? Having shared many a Kilo at Yadgar, I had my doubts. Time would tell.
The Naan had the appearance of a Large Pizza, not the tear-shaped Tandoori Naan one is used to. The Chillies and Fresh Coriander were embedded, there was enough Naan for two.
The Masala was decidedly different and quite a Quantity. The Colour gave away that this was a Thin, Tomato-based Masala, the Flavour of Tomatoes would come through strongly. I counted the Meat, double figures were reached and this was not all bones. There was a mass of Tender Lamb here, more than enough to satisfy.
I waited for something dynamic to happen on the palate. It didn’t. I took stock of what I had. The Spice Level was Moderate, the Chillies in the Naan did not intrude. The Seasoning was Fine, such that in time I began to appreciate that here lay a new set of Flavours. The – Wow – did not happen, I accepted that this was a more than enjoyable Karahi, I would certainly have it again and encourage people to try it. One always hopes to discover another venue to sing songs about, not today.
Mein Host came over as I neared the conclusion of my meal. He confirmed the Tomato-based Masala, no Onions. He advised that when I return for the Namkeen Karahi I should give forty minutes notice. I introduced myself and described the Curry-Heute Website. Namak Mandi has been in operation for six months.
The Bill
£14.50. Another Chap took the Cash, Mein Host had left the premises. I left a Calling Card.
The Aftermath
I asked if the Boss was coming back soon and was informed he was next door. As I passed the Spar / Post Office next door I saw him mid room, evidently not a customer.
This is yours too? – I asked as I entered.
He confirmed that was so.
You are doing well.
I gave another Calling Card. Glasgow needs more Afghani outlets, I wish Namak Mandi every success.
I now realise the online Menu I found was for Namak Mandi in Birmingham. I take it we are not a Chain?
