Unbelievably, it is a year since Hector and Mother last visited Desi Cafe (140 Allison St. Glasgow G42 8RP). We were amongst the first customers when the Desi – Curry Palace expanded to the adjacent premises and ceased just being a Takeaway. I have popped my head in the door in passing to see Ikram who still mans the Takeaway.
Parking round the corner, I was surprised to see Ahmed, Mein Host, walking towards us. He was parked in the same side street. I assured him we were on our way to his premises.
Entering just after 14.00 half of the tables were occupied, within minutes all were. The counter has moved since I was last here, now providing access to the Takeaway Grill. Presumably, the actual cooking takes place in the new kitchen in the Desi Cafe and the reheating and Bread is done in the Desi – Curry Palace. Access to the Facilities is also easier.
A Young Chap talked me through the Dishes on offer. Aloo Gosht on-the-bone was the only Meat option, Chicken being dismissed. One day I might remember to ask for the Menu. Two Portions of Aloo Gosht, one portion of Rice and one Chapatti were ordered.
On returning to my seat I acknowledged two Chaps sitting opposite, they were clearly enjoying the Fayre. They – discovered – Desi Cafe some three weeks ago and have been here often since. I introduced myself and gave them a Calling Card each. I hopefully persuaded them to try the other Curry Cafes nearby: Yadgar, Sheerin Palace and Ambala. No doubt our paths will cross again.
Two warm plates were presented, this always pleases Mother. I halved the Rice, one Portion was enough to share. The Chapatti was partially redundant, but then, how else can one dip?
Dipping the Chapatti into the Shorva, the Flavour was oh so familiar, Classic Desi Cuisine. This one does not get in Mainstream Curry Houses. There was a big Spice hit, the Seasoning was sufficient, not obtrusive.
Decanting the Meat, I counted six pieces, two were on-the-bone. Each of the two large pieces of Potato was cut into more manageable sizes, I now had a decent portion. Some of the Shorva was retained in the bowl, for more dipping and to flavour the Rice at the endgame. Delightful Curry, so simple.
Mother made great progress, she definitely eats more than she did when we started these Lunchtime Outings.
Two things going on here – she remarked – spice, and heat, burny.
Every grain of Rice was devoured, every bone sucked. We certainly had our money’s worth.
The Bill
£13.00. For two meals, great value.
The Aftermath
Ahmed’s son asked:
How was the food?
Always good – was the reply.
Ahmed had a chat with Mother as we departed, this she loves.
Driving along Allison Street, I noticed that Lasani Grill was boarded up, derelict. Maybe someone will tell me what happened here?