On – The Glorious Twelfth – back in 2018, Marg and Hector visited The Radhuni (93 Clerk St., Loanhead EH20 9RE) by invitation. The meal was arranged by Scott and Julia Thornton of – Hotel PR – who invited us to join in the celebrations this afternoon of Radhuni’s 10th Anniversary, a – VIP reception.
Arriving just after 13.30, we heard the strains of – the pipes – and saw the assembly outside enter the restaurant. Even with a prior awareness of Radhuni’s extensive interior, I was still taken aback by how modest the shop front is. Then there’s the outside seating area to the rear.
Habibur Khan, Mein Host, was in the line-up to greet, the first face I recognised. Mujibur could only be his brother. As the formalities got underway, the father of the business – Matin – acknowledged the – VIPs – present which also included Peter Small, Provost of Midlothian. Marg and Hector, VIPs? Most certainly not, but perhaps it does reflect an awareness of Curry-Heute in the Scottish Curry scene.
Scott was the Master of Ceremonies this afternoon. On introducing Habibur, he made reference to Habibur’s dynamism, a quality that was recognised in the award for – The Outstanding Service Award – during the pandemic. In addition to supporting the local community, Habibur’s team raised a significant sum to support the NHS and served thousands of free meals to front line workers.
From 2019, the – Best in Scotland – award also featured in the many photos taken this afternoon. Who wins awards?
Matin relayed the origins of the family business in Dalkeith some thirty five years ago. Itihas (Dalkeith) remains Matin’s principal focus, however it is remarkable what Habibur has achieved in a decade.
On receipt of the invitation, it was the promise of – Canapés – which sparked Hector’s interest and therefore had Marg and the Curry Hound make the journey through from the west of Scotland. Un mercenaire, moi? Puris were presented first followed by Vegetable Samosas. Mighty Meat Samosas followed thereafter, each amuse bouche being served by the staff who were also charged with replenishing drinks. Dare I mention the – free bar?
Chicken Pakora could well have been the food highlight, but when the Seekh Kebab arrived, there was no doubting that – we were being fed. Here for the food? Why should Hector fabricate a defence? Julia hopes that Marg and Hector will be tasked with reviewing a Curry House in Bo’ness. One venue there does appear to be the standout. Hopefully that’s the one.
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Speeches and Canapés were not the only items on this afternoon’s agenda. Walker’s Crisps, yes they who had a football pundit (can’t remember him achieving much on the field of play) amuse us for many years, have a new flavour – Madras Curry! The recipe for – Madras Crisps – was inspired by The Radhuni.
Samples were distributed, I have yet to taste them. Hector tends to only have Curry with Bier, and today was not a Bier day. Did I mention the – free bar? Despite not taking advantage, the generosity was much appreciated. I certainly had my full share of the – Canapés.
There was an ongoing flurry of photography, Hector even had the SLR on duty today, gravitas. Ironically, the self imposed non-flash limitations meant that not all the food was given worthy coverage. The Chefs had their photos taken then the front of house staff in turn.
I asked Habibur when he intended opening this evening. 17.00 – was the answer. There was even more work for the staff to restore the restaurant to its normal layout. We took our leave, an enjoyable afternoon. Today, promotion was seen to work two ways: The Radhuni (& Walker’s) feature in Curry-Heute, whilst the latter in turn has some recognition for promoting Curry across this land.
