Hector was having a good day. The Famous – were winning against their city rivals, a Spicy Lamb (Desi) Korma at Karahi Palace (51-53 Nelson Street, Tradeston, Glasgow, G5 8DZ) could be the icing on the cake. Alas, the shutters were down, again. This is the third time that Hector has arrived to find the staff obviously inside, but not open to the public at the advertised time. And all since the new management came into place. I phoned this evening and was once again given the official line – a Big Order. I made it clear – if Karahi Palace wish to continue to be seen as a restaurant and not a kitchen, then they have to open for their customers. I was assured Karahi Palace would be open at noon tomorrow and Monday. A challenge.
I had given up thoughts of Curry-Heute as I approached The State Bar at 14.30, once more in a somewhat elated mood. Bunkers later, ah, but, behold – Glassy Central (285 Sauchiehall Street, Glasgow G2 3HQ) – as promised by Kinder, Mein Host, at start of March, was open early in the day! The irony, and an opperchancity not to be missed.
Rajesh the new, enthusiastic manager, greeted me like a long lost friend. Given the number of Glasgow venues he has worked in, it is likely we have met before. He was aware from the start that all would be recorded.
The young waiter, clearly a new start, brought the – 3 Course Lunch Menu – available 12.00 until 15.00. I’ll remind the Reader, today is Saturday, and the prices are unbelievable: Business Lunch (£5.95), Executive Lunch (£6.95). Assuming portions are not – Nouvelle Cuisine – get here soon, this is unsustainable.
The Hector asked for the Main Menu, though for a moment – Chicken Chat, Lamb Karahi with Nan – was almost ordered. Note, no surcharge for Meat. If a Mainstream Curry was to be had, then let’s go for something powerful in Flavour. Lamb Achari (£9.95) with Special Rice (£3.50) (without Capsicum) was the Order.
A 330ml bottle of Sparkling Water (£3.00) would accompany. Rajesh was keen for me to order more, Bread, Punjabi Lamb Chops (£5.95). I assured him I had ordered what I could manage. I promised that when I bring Marg, we’ll have the Chops!
Prices have increased since my first visit, but remain competitive for a city centre restaurant. If the daytime opening maintains, Glassy Central could become a useful venue for Hector when time to cross the river is at a premium.
Rajesh was keen to chat whilst I waited. The Curry-Heute website was revealed, a Calling Card issued already. All quite intense. Above Medium Spice – was added in at some point. Chef was cooking for me only, the other diners were departing.
The Special Rice lived up to its name. In March, Peas, Carrots and Green Beans were in the mix. Today, these were complemented by Broccoli and Cauliflower, a veritable Biryani. Once all was sorted, this creation proved to have a powerful Flavour in its own right. A Vegetable Biryani indeed, excellent.
Lamb Achari
One cannot help but count the Meat when decanting, double figures were reached, a decent portion. The Masala had a welcome level of viscosity, Soup – this was not. Bhoona Karahi – was given in the description. As far as Mainstream Curry goes, this looked to be just the job.
The blast of Pickle came across immediately, no skimping here. The Spice was well pitched, not demanding, no extremes, just a decent level. The Seasoning had me won, this was spot on. With these three parameters in harmony, plus the extra Flavours from the Special Rice, this proved to be a most satisfying Curry, as good as Achari gets.
Rajesh asked for points out of ten. I told him I don’t do that, but did praise the Seasoning. This was relayed back to the kitchen.
As I reached the end game, so I was informed that as the only diner present, I could choose the music.
Next weekend, Marg and Hector are off to Morecambe to see Pendragon play their first UK gigs since Lockdown. Remember Hector’s escape from Polska? Rajesh went to his laptop – Breaking The Spell – a Pendragon Classic was broadcast through the restaurant.
Curry, Pendragon, and a victory for – The Famous – Hector was having a good day.
The Bill
£16.45 This was nearly rounded down, I insisted on paying what I owed.
The Aftermath
There was a flurry of photography. Chef Krishna came to do the honours, I ensured his image was captured also. As Rajesh walked me up the stairs, so he informed me that Glassy Central are losing money on their Lunch Menu unless people buy drinks. Who drinks at lunchtime?
Menu
