Glasgow – Al-Anwar – Opening Today!

It’s all change on Glasgow’s Southside once again. Kebabish Grill has re-opened after their near devastating fire. Despite being invited to the Grand Opening, twice, Hector missed both dates. Curry on the Hill has gone, lovely people, great food, but a bit too far south for Hector ever to be a regular.

I have been monitoring the premises which were once Lasani Grill (223-225 Allison street, Glasgow, G42 8RU) and hence the refurbishment in recent weeks. Last Wednesday I spotted the shutters were partially up at this locus. Hector Holmes was on the case.

The counters were being installed, the Menu Board was already in situ. With Calling Card in hand, I approached the chap who had to be Mein Host.

He directed me to a young chap with better English. I introduced myself and Curry-Heute. It was confirmed that Al-Anwar opens today (12.00 until 23.00, seven days, suggest after 14.30 on Fridays). Mein Host – Anwar – is the owner of the premises which were previously leased to Lasani Grill. I noted the redecoration of the main dining room, booths on one side, surely the small tables on the opposite side are temporary?

Desi Curry will be served along with the usual Kebap, Burgers and Pizza which go down so well in this part of the city. If Hector was not presently in a – Curry Desert – then there would be more to write. Soon, hopefully.

Update – July 4th

Howard has the honour of being the first of the – Curryspondents – to eat at Al-Anwar. This evening he  ordered Vegetable Pakora, Karahi Gosht (£8.50) and a Chapatti. Howard had asked for Fish Pakora, but none was available.

Expecting a modest potion of Pakora, – four – is what he told me, he was surprised to receive such a plateful. Such is the way of not dining in Restaurants in the Merchant City or the West End. The Pakora was suitably spiced and enjoyed.  One can only speculate as to what appetite remained for the main course.

Karahi Gosht

The first thing Howard mentioned was the Oil. This can be seen to be separating from the Masala.  We both appreciate that herein lies the source of Flavour. The Masala appears to be suitably viscous and not excessive. I was assured that the Meat count was into double figures, a worthy portion.

In terms of the Flavour, here the suspense has to continue.  A very poor phone line made the end of the conversation difficult.  There’s only one way to find out the rest, get along to Al-Anwar asap, or wait a while until Hector gets back on the case.

Anda Kofta (£6.00) is on their Menu, this will have Hector making two visits as soon as is possible.  A new source of Desi-style Karahi Gosht in Glasgow has to be experienced.   However, if/when – The Company – assemble for a visit, I cannot see the Kilo of Karahi Gosht (£30.00) being viable.  More competitive pricing is required here.