Tuesday has been Lidl Shopping Day with Mother for some years, followed by lunch. Sadly Curry began to have adverse effects on the octogenarian, consequently Hector usually tolerates – other food. But not today!
Driving along Calder Street, the newly restored signage for Yadgar Kebab House (148 Calder St, Govanhill, Glasgow, G42 7QP) stood proud. Kebab House – has been dropped from the main banner, however, the original logo maintains on what could be a new illuminated sign. Suddenly, the need for Aloo Gobi became fixed in the mind, Hector would return later after – mother duties – were fulfilled. En route to – Chez Maman – we passed what was Lasani Grill. That the premises were being refurbished has been observed in recent weeks, today – Al-Anwar – had replaced – Lasani Grill – … another case for – Hector Holmes.
It was after 16.00 when I got back to Yadgar, Aloo Gobi was on display under the counter. Naveed took care of the Order, a solitary Chapatti would accompany.
No Pakora? – enquired Naveed.
I explained I was here for a snack, dinner will be later this evening, Marg working particularly late.
Three other tables were occupied, I acknowledged the only other – lone diner – as I took one of the smaller tables.
Naveed brought a Mango Rubicon, then moments later, the Aloo Gobi and Chapatti.
Aloo Gobi
A Thick and Minimal Masala was topped with sliced Green Chillies, Ginger Strips and Fresh Coriander. The Cauliflower was on the soft side, the Potatoes were perfect, the Masala, well… The Spicy Kick was there, the Seasoning spot on, it’s all about the Flavours. The Taste of Yadgar – is oh so, powerful. Whatever their blend of Herbs and Spices, this was once again magnificent. Every crumb (!) of the freshly made Chapatti, every morsel of the Aloo Gobi was devoured. This was Punjabi Cuisine at its best, and not a single piece of Meat.
Naveed passed by as he served other diners. I took the opperchancity to mention what was Lasani Grill. If I understood and recall accurately, it is the chap who originally established Lasani Grill who is back, or will be. Al-Anwar – is not operational as yet. A Big Name – is how Naveed described him, Anwar is the family name at Yadgar, another branch of the family? There will be more on this as soon as. Meanwhile, I note that Kebabish Grill on Victoria Rd is still not open, yet the Grand Re-opening was meant to be last Friday. The ongoing roadworks cannot be helping.
How do they (the Chefs) get so much Flavour into those Vegetables? – I asked Naveed in whatever is the opposite of a rhetorical question (a question). I know it’s a big secret.
Naveed offered me Tea etc., declined as ever, I had accomplished my mission.
The Bill
£5.00 Hector rates.
The Aftermath
The young waiter/gopher was resplendent in a Yadgar polo-shirt, I suggested to Naveed that they should be on sale. T-shirts and baseball caps too – he replied.
Watch this space.
Was there en route to Hampden for the Scotland game on Saturday. Thought the sign looked new… Fish Pakora, Chicken Karahi and chappatis. All fantastic. Worth whatever effort is required to get there.
Hector replies:
Chicken Karahi…Chicken?