Today was the significant fifth visit to Chimes of India (914-916 Sauchiehall Street, Finnieston, Glasgow G3 7 TF). Such has been the impression created in the four previous visits this year, Chimes of India is hereby promoted to both Hector’s Recommended Curry Houses, and Glasgow’s Top Rated.
Entering Chimes of India at 14.00, six French diners were near the end of their meal. Their delight was expressed to Vini, Mein Host. They even took time to admire the family photos on the wall. Once again, I took the small window table in the corner. From here, the Hector could survey all. The delivery chap always appears at this time on a Saturday.
I told Vini I was not here for Curry today, but Starters only. A deliberate strategy to cover more of the menu on this landmark day. The Hector does not deny that the Desi Lamb (£11.95) served on-the-bone is what has instigated the return visits. Ruaridh, the son of one of Marg’s Aberdoom school chums was here last evening in a party of eight. Having studied Curry-Heute, he too had the Desi Lamb on-the-bone. Having mentioned this well known and reliable Curry Blog, they enjoyed some liquid hospitality courtesy of Vini, such was their level of enthusiasm and positive feedback.
Have the Fish Pakora – was an instruction given by a departing customer on Visit #2.
Fish Pakora can be a delight, at Chimes of India it is Amritsari Fish Pakora (£6.70). This would be accompanied by Garlic Mushroom Puri (£6.00). The Puri (Bread) would hopefully be filling. A jug of tap water completed the Order.
Two Poppadoms and a wee pot of Spiced Onions were brought to the table. Complimentary, as they should surely be, they taste so much better when one knows one not is being ripped off.
During the wait, there was a conversation with Vini, whilst Hector still had an eye and ear on the ongoing stalemate in Edinburgh. Both Starters arrived together.
Amritsari Fish Pakora
Six large pieces of Haddock, as Vini confirmed, shrouded in a Spicy Batter. Importantly, freshly cooked and piping hot.
The Chilli Dip was put to good use, thankfully not the ubiquitous sweet stuff that prevails. The two Cherry Tomatoes were a nice touch, slivers of Cucumber too.
Moderately Spiced, OK Seasoning, I could have sat and eaten this Fish Pakora all day. Maybe, one day I’ll come and just order three portions and see how it goes. And great value compared to a nearby venue.
Garlic Mushroom Puri
Wholemeal Flour, not Hector’s preferred ingredient. For a presumably fried Bread, this showed no signs of Oil. The interior was a mass of fresh Mushroom slices shrouded in a Creamy, Garlic-rich Sauce. Sauce, Masala does not seem appropriate.
This was a major departure from the usual Chasni/Patia Masala which features in a Prawn Puri. And thankfully once more, no Red-Sweet Chilli Sauce.
There was sufficient filling to match the quantity of Bread. Gently Spiced, the Flavour of the Mushrooms came across, the Garlic did not overwhelm. An interesting departure from my norm, this could be a Starter which Marg would particularly enjoy.
Dessert, not something the Hector bothers with. Vini had other ideas. Shrikhand, Vini described how it is made: strained Yoghurt, Cardamom, Pistachio, zest of Lemon, how could the Hector refuse?
Shrikhand
Distracted by the post match analysis, I forgot to take a photo at the start, so here’s a half eaten one. This was seriously rich and creamy. The Citrus was easy to spot, as was the background Spice. I enjoyed this treat and I know a lady who will certainly be having this on our next visit.
The Bill
£13.50 Didn’t I do well?
The Aftermath
Now to create the dedicated, summary page, for Chimes of India.