The Akash – Helensburgh, Every Day, in Every Way…

Posted on September 20, 2013 by Hector

Another Staff Social, another Curry-Heute. Jamie, Steve and Hector descended upon the Akash (45A Sinclair St, Helensburgh, G84 8TG) sometime around 22.30. Steve had mentioned the – C – word earlier in the evening, there was no going back even though there would be no public transport to take Hector Home. So it goes.

The Hector Special

Although this Wondrous Dish is not on the Menu, I am told people are coming into The Akash and asking for it. Maybe it will merit inclusion in the next reprint? Steve was determined to try The Hector Special, he has not sampled this Precise Order since it was first presented on the Opening Weekend of the New-co. He asked for it to be – Spicy – but was assured by The Waiter that it would be. A Dry, Thick Masala, Rich in Methi, served with Tender Lamb; a Methi Gosht, but refined. One assumes the Chef uses some Spinach also, but this does not dominate. The Balance in the Leaves is Everything. Herbs, the difference between a Bradford-style Curry and The Rest.  Steve added Mince Rice and a Garlic Nan to complete his order.

Jamie, a Regular at The Akash, has been sampling Lamb Curry of late but has yet to cast aside his love of the traditional Bland White Meat. The Akash Mazadar was his choice, a Dish featuring Chicken Prawns and Lamb. Halfway to paradise? Jamie and I agreed on two Chapattis (£0.75), we meant Each, but only two ever turned up. As it would turn out, we had enough food without overloading on Bread, or would we?

The Complementary Poppadoms, Spiced Onion and Mango Chutney were brought to the table. This is how it should be, how I loathe establishments which effectively add a Fiver to The Bill through sharp practice. The wait between courses was not noticeable, the Curry came soon after.

Jamie’s Mazadar was much appreciated – Extra spicy, with lots of Flavour – was his verdict. I have to highlight the lack of needless Masala, this looked an Interesting Dish.

The two Methi Gosht looked inviting. Just how Special? There were pieces of Lamb which were decidedly Round and very Tender. Hector is not a Butcher, so does not know from part of the animal they came, but this was definitely the Best Lamb I have had served to me on these premises for some time. More Seasoning would have made it Perfect, but this is Fine Tuning. This was a Quality Curry.

Steve waxed lyrical – This was an Excellent Curry and I’ve been coming here a long time. Better than the old Dinnis Days.  Quite a statement by Steve!

The Garlic Naan caused so much amusement there was no record made of the Mince Rice, though the latter looked good enough to order again. The Garlic Naan was enormous, approaching Alishan proportions. One thing is for certain, never order two for a table. The Pair of Chapattis now turned out to be quite sufficient.

We were not long into our Curry when a Fourth Curry was presented – On The House. An Aloo Gosht with a more Traditional Masala. The Kick was even greater than The Hector Special. A Dish certainly worth ordering if the Hector-style of Curry does not appeal.

Could they have done any more? I doubt it very much. We were well looked after and served with Curry at a very high standard.

Hector is puzzled

We were the only customers. This was worrying. OK, the Pubs wouldn’t shut for some time yet, but surely in a town this size, the Better (by far) of the Two Curry Houses should attract more custom than this? As we departed, so did The Chef. So no more late Night Curry Sessions at The Akash? The number of times I have spent the small hours in the company of the local taxi drivers after their shift… but that was a long time ago.

The Bill

£48.10. Somebody had a Lager, so still around the standard price.

The Aftermath

The Masala Twist was mentioned by Hector. Mein Host appeared unaware of a New Curry House opening shortly. I doubt if The Akash have to worry too much about which House will serve the Better Curry, however The Masala Twist will have Lamb Chops…

Posted in [Akash (New-co)] | Comments Off on The Akash – Helensburgh, Every Day, in Every Way…

The New Karahi Palace remains Outstanding!

Posted on September 18, 2013 by Hector

Hector was Hungry. The New Karahi Palace (51-53 Nelson Street, Glasgow, G5 8DZ) has not been visited for four months. That I have been tasting signs of their Karahi in recent Curry Outings has seen it bubble up once more as a priority. I could eat here every week, even more if funds permitted. Not that this place is expensive, far from it.

The Bill

£10.00. I paid by Plastic here for the first time ever. The Meal was paid for at point of ordering, my choice.

And so to Food

Shahed’s hand was extended across the counter as I approached. Yes, four months have passed since the wonder that is the Karahi served here. I asked for Dry and Methi as a reminder. Karela was enquired about, but Shahed stated with an air of authority that tonight I was better off ordering the straight Lamb Karahi which would be served on-the-bone. Two Chapattis were required. Did I mention I was Hungry?

I took a Can of Rubicon Mango from The Fridge and took my seat. One other Diner was near completing his feast. There was no acknowledgement.

The TV amused me with the Bollywood Videos of a seedy Chap pursuing a Charming Young Damsel. There was activity in the Bedroom and even in the back-seat of a Car… how they sang their hearts out… A Plate of Salad was brought which rich in Fresh Onion. Normally the impressively Thick Ratia accompanies this, but not tonight. The Salad was ignored.

Shahed brought the Curry

Rasheed had worked his Magic once more. The Karahi was Blistering Hot, there was an Audible Sizzle from the Base where the Ghee was Bubbling away. The Generous pieces of Lamb were shrouded in a Thick Mush of Tomato and Onion. This style of Masala I have come to associate with somewhere around the Pakistan-Afghan-Punjab part of our Planet. The first of the Two Chapattis accompanied the Karahi, the second arrived moments later. Both were Rich in Texture, Meals in themselves. The First Dip did not immediately give – The Wow. However Dipping to the Base of the Karahi, Hector knew already this Big Flavours would be found here. Indeed they were. The Kick was Significant, more – Wow. The Lamb was not all on-the-bone. A Lamb Chop was discovered in the Mass of Meat. Such Wonderful Lamb.

The normal intake of 1.5 Chapattis was exceeded, both were destroyed.

Did I mention I was Hungry?

The Aftermath

This evening the nearby Laurieston was receiving its first CAMARA POTY Award. The Usual Crowd had assembled.

Eddie, a Regular Reader of Curry-Heute came over for a chat. Haven’t seen him ages. Eddie was right up to date and quoted my last Deutsche Curry in Frankfurt at the start of this week. Impressive, and always appreciated.

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Frankfurt am Main – Lahore Kebab Haus

Posted on September 15, 2013 by Hector

The Day after Wolf Strassenfest

On the equivalent day last year, DB managed to delay Hector’s trip to Frankfurt am Main to such an extent that there was no Curry-Heute. Today everything went smoothly and so Hector was in the Business Capital by 14.12; my first Curry in this City since 1976.  That was a memorable day, my first Curry abroad.  Cinnamon was very much to the fore, I remember it well.Lahore Kebab Haus (Münchener Strasse 39, Frankfurt am Main, 60329, Hesse Deutschland) had two major attractions, it is the nearest Curry House to the Hauptbahnhof and most importantly, it was open.

The Dishes were all pre-cooked and on display at the counter is is the style of the typical Curry Café. There was a lot of Chicken on offer and so I asked for Lamb, not a problem. A classic Lamb Curry was pointed out. As it was Meat and Masala only, I asked for a half portion of Aloo Gobi also. Rice was offered and accepted, inclusive no doubt. The Portions were assembled and placed in alLarge Panasonic Microwave, oh no. In my experience, Microwaves Kill Curry!

Once delivered a bottle of Sparkling Water was negotiated. The presentation of the food was fine, it looked just the job. Sadly that is almost the end of the – Positives.

Aloo Gobi – Rice – Lamb Curry

The Lamb was plentiful into double figures of good sized pieces with a couple on-the bone. The air of Optimism continued. The Lamb was well-cooked and very Tender, unfortunately it lacked any Depth of Flavour. Garam Masala may have been the only ingredient that may have been used to make this Curry. The Masala was of the Thin variety, a throwback to a bygone time. There was next to no  –  kick – either, what I had was a Slightly Spiced Lamb Stew.

The Aloo Gobi fared little better. Again well-cooked, the Cauliflower still had a bit of firmness, alas the only Flavours from this Side Dish were Potato and Cauliflower.Hector ate well, half of the Rice was leftover.

It was Curry, just.  Had I inadvertently asked for – The Blandest thing on The Menu?

There was a steady stream of customers buying Takeaways and the occasional solo diner. An Asian family came and most appeared to order Chicken Tikka Masala. For once, this may have been the better option.

The Bill

€11.00. I have to be happy with the price, at least the Curry Hound was fed.

The Aftermath

No Calling Card was offered, I didn’t think they deserved it. On balance this visit was disappointing.  Not as memorable as 1976!

Thirty minutes free t’Internet at Frankfurt Flughafen, nice, but it Disnae’ Work! Back to the Trusty Samsung and Roaming.

Posted in Lahore Kebab Haus | 2 Comments

Taj Mahal, Düsseldorf – Next to Schumacher, Oststrasse

Posted on September 13, 2013 by Hector

I have never seen a Curry Haus in Düsseldorf – remarked Dr. Stan as we walked from Uerige back to Königsallee. Dr. Stan agreed with Zebedee, he had been here the bulk of two days on his lonesome, and so disappeared. Hector had just arrived. Travelling from Scotland to Nordrhein Westfalen on a Friday night used to be simples, alas no more. I made a connection at Heathrow, just.

In theory, Taj Mahal (Oststraße 143, 40210, Düsseldorf, NRW) was open until midnight. That the front door was wide open and welcoming put Hector’s mind at ease. There will be Curry Heute.

Mein Host greeted me in English. He was quick to tell me they shut in half an hour, I had timed it to perfection. The Menu was provided, Marg phoned to tell me her exciting news. It was all happening at once.

Lamm Chops – The Menu boasted proudly. I spotted Chapattis at €1.90, but then wondered about Inclusive Rice. Mein Host basically told me I wasn’t having Chapattis, I was having Rice. OK then. He returned moments later to inform me I wasn’t having Lamb Chops either. Right, A Dry Lamm Curry.

Dry Lamm Curry –  was announced in the general direction of the Kitchen.

Sprudel

A Bottle of Gerolsteiner Sparkling Water was The Tipple.  What else?

A basket with a solitary Poppadom and two small Dips was set before me. I was advised that the Red one was Scharf. Acutally, we hardly exchanged a word of Deutsch – Hot – then.

German Poppadoms can be outstanding, especially when they have embedded Cumin Seeds. This did not, but the Scharf Sauce lived up to the warning. This was a Hot Dip. Tremendous.

The Curry arrived before I had polished of The Bits.

Lost in Translation, again

Trocken. I had it right this time. The one word of Deutsch I had spoken to Mein Host.

More Boiled Rice than a Man would normally eat and a plate of Runny Curry were presented. I counted seven pieces of Lamb and the heart sank momentarily. I then realised they were all substantial. At home I would have halved each. And so I did, enough Lamb, just. The Lamb was Tender, I suspect it had just recently made the acquaintance of the Masala.

Once could have dismissed the entire meal at this point as being yet another disappointing Euro-Curry, however, things became decidedly positive. The Masala was Thin and Oily. Well Thinner than I would have hoped for but it did have Body. It was not Red, a bonus. Cream was evident, the word Makhani came to mind. Hector’s mouth was still on fire after the Hot Dip, but even so, a powerful sense of Citrus came on to the palate. This Masala was not Breaking Bad at all. Indeed, I realised I was thoroughly enjoying it.

I would never have picked this off a Menu. Was this Dish on The Menu? I piled on more Rice. The leftover Masala went down a treat.  A thought,  with Fish, this could well have been Perfect.

Altbier and Runny Curry, perhaps the perfect Düsseldorf evening?

By the time I had finished eating I had noted a strange tongue being spoken by all the staff. It wasn’t Polish, or Russian but at times had audible similarities.

The Bill

€15.70. I could have been charged anything, what I had was not on The Menu. Comparable to a Glasgow Curry, price-wise.

The Lamm Chops were €16.90, a pity.

The Aftermath

The Calling Card was studied well. It does work better in Deutschland. They know – today is Heute.

I had to ask about the spoken language. Portuguese. All the staff are except the Chef, he is Indian. Maybe – Dry – does not translate?

This venue does not score highly on other Websites. I cannot fault what I ate this evening. I would certainly return, but there are another six Curry Houses to choose from.

Schumacher was still open after midnight, a first?  Quality Control insisted I enter.

Until December.

Posted in [Taj Mahal] | 1 Comment

Glasgow – Masala Twist (Hope St.) – Hope St. Today, Helensburgh – Coming Soon?

Posted on September 7, 2013 by Hector

On Thursday evening, Alan emailed to advise of a new Helensburgh Curry House, a much needed addition. Masala Twist of Byres Rd. and East Kilbride, then of Hope St. appear to be expanding their Curry Empire. Do the Town Planners know? Anyway, there are posters next door to The Sir Howard Young advertising – Masala Twist, coming soon. There is an expression guaranteed to raise Hector’s Hackles in recent times. But such frustrations belong in The Other Blog – Bier-Traveller.

The delight of the monthly trip to Musselburgh for wonderful Ales at Staggs is our early return to The Metropolis – Glasgow.

Following Steve’s enjoyable Curry last Saturday at Shahed’s I dropped in.  Mein Host was not present and the con duty declined to serve my order on a plate. I declined to order. Nearby Bombay Blues is overdue a return visit by some twenty years, but with the Buffet to the fore I walked on.   Standards.

Masala Twist (261 Hope Street, Glasgow, G2 3PS), felt topical. On my first and only visit (so far) to the Byres Rd branch, Raman gave me the 20% Discount Card. Would the discount be valid in the Hope St branch?

A first floor restaurant may not be ideal, however one assumes the rent should be lower. Just as well, only two other diners were present around 20.30 when I entered.

I was offered a larger table but chose the smaller, it was just me, a table for two would suffice. Two Staff were on duty and both would look after Hector very well indeed. The Menu had to be studied, the possibility of something new was considered after my visit to the Byres Rd. branch. The style is very much Tapas, so two choices felt justified. In the end the tried and tested felt appropriate.

Anschluss

I asked about The Lamb Chops. £4.95 for three sounded OK. The Roti at £1.65 was dismissed in favour of a Tandoori Vegetable Paratha at £3.50. There is logic in this. A second Paratha is never required, a second Roti might be. The Karahi, again at £4.95, contained the Dreaded Green Mushy Vegetable. I decided to try the Austrian Tactic. Could you ask Chef to substitute the Capsicum with the Vegetable of his choice please? This appeared to be possible.

The Trusty Samsung kept me amused whilst I waited. Lots of note taking and the occasional surreptitious photo.

The Chops arrived, three standing like rifles on the parade ground. They were absolutely wonderful! As good as any Lamb Chop that has been served to Hector. The Modest Salad Accompaniment gave a crunch to alternate with the blast on the taste-buds. A Green Dip which looked like Mint but did not taste of Mint was also integral to the Dish. I asked, and was told it was a mix of Mango and Mint, Different. So far, excellent … but Hector’s old adage – Beware of Curry Houses with outstanding Starters, The Mains rarely live up...

The Karahi and the Paratha looked Stunning. The Karahi had Minimal Masala. Mushrooms and Peas had been added as the Substitute Vegetable. Five good sized pieces of Lamb were in this Tapas portion. Not bad at all, I have been served Mains this size. The Lamb was not particularly Spiced, the only disappointment. The Overall Flavour took me South of the River again towards the New Karahi Palace. Maybe I am missing this wonderful venue? With the Texture and Flavours almost spot-on this could not be faulted. Well, maybe a wee bit more Methi and Seasoning.

The Paratha was out of this World!

Normally I struggle to finish a whole Paratha, however, with the smaller Curry portion I found myself distracted. With Peas and the Paste I have spotted a few venues using, this was truly excellent. Piping Hot, with a moist surface it looked inviting, especially compared to last evening’s disappointing Breads. Light and Fluffy, every mouthful was a shear delight. Have I captured the moment?

The Karahi was very good, the Chops and the Paratha certainly had – the Wow Factor.

Let us hope the good people of Helensburgh do not have to wait too long for the opening of the James St. branch.

The Bill

£12.57. This was after a discount of £2.68. I was assured that the Discount Card is valid in all of the branches. Handy!

The Aftermath

I had a very pleasant chat with the Waiter. He was setting up the Buffet Table for tomorrow’s Lunch. I spotted a Lamb Desi label. He confirmed that the Buffet Dishes tend to be safe, not too Spicy. Why Hector rarely tries Buffet. He asked if I had ever been to The Killermont Polo Club. Not in a decade or so, but ironically I nearly went there last Tuesday but stayed local instead.

He does not know when the Helensburgh branch will open. Maybe the Town Planning Department may be able to shed some light on this?

Update

Masala Twist have moved their premises further up Hope St to number 261.

The Helensburgh branch did open, Hector was even recognised on his first visit.

The Killermont Polo Club has been visited.

glasgow-masala-twist-curry-heute-com

 

Posted in Masala Twist (Hope St.) | 1 Comment

Glasgow – Charcoals – and The Food Kept Coming…

Posted on September 6, 2013 by Hector

Once again, it was Dr. Rick’s choice of Curry-Heute venue. The last time he suggested Charcoals (26A Renfield St, Glasgow, G2 1LU) they couldn’t take us. This time we had a Reservation, in Rick’s name. We arrived from opposite directions bang on the agreed time, 18.30. Dr. Rick identified himself to the Waiter. Ali, Mein Host, was straight across, Hector had been recognised. We chatted for a few moments in the still narrow entrance. The premises have been totally re-designed internally since my first visits. Much brighter, and with an increased seating capacity, there is more of a Restaurant Feel, however it is in no way pretentious. The Unnecessary Tablecloths are nowhere to be seen. I mentioned the new Charcoals outlet on Trongate which has opened in the last couple of weeks. It is a Tapas -style Curry House selling something different. One day soon hopefully.

We were given the second table on the left in the narrow entrance, we would witness the arrival of every potential diner for the duration of our stay. Most had Bookings, one group was advised there would be a time limit on their visit due to a later Booking. Dr. Rick informed me that we had to vacate by 20.30, that should not be a problem.

Dr. Stan, The Enigma, was due to join us. We told Ali that we were waiting for Our Third. He presented a Plate of Poppadoms with an Array of Bits. The Poppadoms had been Roasted, not Fried, a very pleasant Variation, no Grease, an almost Smoked Taste. A Chana Salad and Spiced Onions were accompanied by three small portions of Dips. Dr. Stan arrived as we were tucking in and assumed we had ordered. We hadn’t, and were given time to enjoy the Complimentary Starter.

Three Dishes caught Hector’s eye. The Adraki boasted Herbs and Ginger. Rara Gosht featured Lamb with Mince. The Lamb Desi was on-the-bone and also promised Herbs. This had to be Hector’s choice. Dr. Rick had already decided upon the Rara Gosht before Dr. Stan’s arrival. Dr. Stan chose the same Dish.

Paratha would be the Accompaniments, two Aloo and one Plain. An Aloo Paratha at £3.50 felt better value than a £1.20 Chapatti. The Desi can be whatever The Chef serves, this would at least guarantee a Vegetable.

Ali appeared once more and explained why he had not taken away the side plates. He placed a two Generous Helpings of Pakora before us. Ali said he didn’t wish us to be bored whilst we waited for The Mains. The plate nearest Hector had long, thin Pakora, Fish I assumed. It was Chicken. The other plate had very large chunks, almost Bhaji-like. It was a Vegetable Pakora unlike any I have experienced at this Venue and I have had a few Pakoras from here over the years. Three Hungry Chaps destroyed the Pakaora. A Treat indeed.

The Mains

The Rara Gosht came first. Two Pots of Dark Brown Curry with a Masala that looked very interesting. As Dr. Stan remarked – the Sauce is just Mince. I hope that came out correctly. He enjoyed the combination of Lamb and Keema. Dr. Rick chose his words carefully, as ever.

Well balanced Spices in a Mix of Mince and Lamb, although Medium, it was still Spicy, a lot of Food.

The Desi again had a Brown Hue. Ali had told me not to worry about too much Masala. Suitably Thick it was Very Rich. A Really Old-Fashioned set of Flavours. Although there was a presence of Bones, it was not excessive.  Plenty of Seriously Tender Lamb. Last time the Curry served on these premises was familiar, as I cook Curry. This was markedly different, and refreshingly so. More seasoning and even more Herbs, how often do I write this(?), and this Dish could have hit the stratosphere. It was very good indeed.

There’s More

Ali brought a Fourth Bread. Kulcha(?) Naan, lost in Pronunciation perhaps, is what I think he said. The Breads were all pre-sliced and decidedly Flat. This was the poorest part of the of all the Presented Food this evening. The Aloo Paratha was unremarkable.

Another Dish arrived, Tarka Daal. This was shared out, a New Texture and new set of Flavours, a good touch. Much Appreciated.

The Bill

£42.50. £5.00 of this was for two small Bottles of Sparkling Water. Is that how they can be so generous in other ways?

The Aftermath

We bade Farewell to Ali. The Doctors went home, Hector joined The Chaps briefly to watch some of Scotland v Belgium. Who were these Chaps in the Blue Shirts?

I recognised fewer than half of them, the Score was sadly all too familiar…

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New Cafe Punjab, Clydebank – Two Years Later

Posted on September 4, 2013 by Hector

Hector-the-Chef was off-duty this evening, Curry-Heute for one required. First stop was the Boulevard Hotel to try and secure the Desi Achari that had promise in May on my last visit. The building is currently undergoing a major redevelopment, there may never be a Curry served here again. A new Takeaway establishment in Yoker was the next port of call. I studied the Menu for some minutes. Nothing inspired me at all, I left. Back to the tried and tested.

I cannot believe it is two years since my last visit to New Cafe Punjab (26 Alexander St, Clydebank, Dunbartonshire, G81 1RZ), Clydebank’s longest established Curry Venue. Having recently spotted a new staff member dressed in an outfit I would not associate with Islamabad I thought it was possible this venue might have changed hands. I was recognised by Mein Host on entry, so no change then.

I was shown to a table for four but on consideration took a smaller corner table. This prevented the Waiter removing three sets of the elaborate table settings. A Buffet was available for those who required it, a Set Menu was also on offer but not offered to Hector. They know.

I have written in previous Clydebank Curry Reports that I believe there to be a Ubiquitous Clydebank Curry Taste. No matter where one goes they all taste the same. Ironically the only exception to this was Bombay Grill, now closed. So the rule may still hold.

Achari was very much in mind, the description looked fine, the Dreaded Capsicum not mentioned. Surely the Pickle would provide a Taste Variant? Being particularly ravenous, a Side Dish of Interesting Vegetables was required. At £4.00 for any of the listed Vegetable Curry Sides, the Potato Cauliflower had to be captured. Two Chapattis (80p) should be sufficient.

A Can of Perrier, very posh, was the Sparkling Water of the day.

I asked for a Tender Lamb Achari – Medium with a Kick.

Slightly Hot – was the Waiters Translation.

I couldn’t resist dropping in an – Aloo Gobi – as I ordered The Side.

No Rice?

The Waiter returned moments later to ask what strength I wished the Potato Cauliflower to be. Now this was a first. I have never before been asked to nominate the strength of a Side. Novel and Welcomed.

If I write that the layout has changed then this would be accurate, however what the time frame for this may be,   is unknown. The place feels brighter and more airy but also tends towards the spartan. I counted 44 Places set, if full it would still never be claustrophobic. The Buffet was behind a partition running from the doorway. Of the ten diners present, nobody was up for it. They still advertise a Buffet Seven Days a  Week, Lunchtime and Evenings.

The Aloo Gobi and the Chapattis arrived first.      Oh.

The Main came soon afterwards, Appearance as expected.

The Achari had the copious quantity of Masala as served in any Mainstream Curry House. It had a  Thick-ish Texture and was not too Red. The Citrus Tang came through very quickly as did the decent Kick. The Lamb was Superbly Tender. I lost count after ten pieces, more than enough. Within the limits of expectation one could not fault this. Small pieces of Sliced Chilli and a Pulse which was Pea-like but more Chana in Texture, was also present. A single sliver of Capsicum emerged. This was fine, in no way outstanding.

The Chapattis were also Standard Fare, the Thin Ones which would sell for twice as much in Aberdeen, and bear no resemblance to the Chunky Chapattis served in my Favoured Outlets. Eating both of these would not be a challenge.

The Tour de Force

The Aloo Gobi was excellent. The taste of Cauliflower still came through. The Potato and Cauliflower were shrouded in a delightfully Thick, Earthy Masala which was brilliantly Minimal.

Again Chopped Chillies and this time Herbs were also evident. This and the addition of the Kick created the – Wow! I could have had this as a Main Course. Worth the price of admission.

The Aftermath

Mein Host had spoken to me briefly during my wait for the Curry. He remembered me well, where I worked, what I teach. He was interested in places I have found since my last visit.

The Competition

At the end of my meal we spoke for a considerable time. We both wrote off some of the Bigger Names on the Glasgow Curry Scene. It is illogical that some popular venues are so, location, reputation. Do they really deliver? And why so expensive?

The Clydebank Curry scene had to be discussed. What can Mein Host do to attract more business? With hundreds of houses soon to be, or under-construction presently, the customer base must expand soon. However, there is a realisation that mid-week they may appear here as I have done.  At weekends Clydebank goes to Glasgow for Curry.

The Non-Buffet, Buffet

I quoted a realisation that Chinese restaurants have started a fixed price for eat all you can, cooked and brought fresh to the table. The Akash in Helensburgh has launched such a deal for £15.00 per head on Wednesdays only. Dare I mention I have never paid more than £15.00 at Yadgar for the finest Curry (and all that comes with it)  served in Glasgow?

Bradford

Mein Host remembered my Bradford Allegiance. He has been, but has never eaten there. He remains to be convinced that Bradford Curry is that Outstanding. I planted the seeds of The International and Sheesh Mahal in his mind once more. This time I had Mughals to add to the list – Punjabi Breakfast as first described to Hector by Curryspondent Ahmed and observed at the said venue.  He of course knew what I was on about. Hector has yet to sample this.  Anywhere open this early selling the full menu will tend to sell me a Karahi or Methi Gosht. Maybe in three weeks time?

The Bill

£14.90. I could have had a Takeaway Tea-Time Special with loadsa’ Pakora, Rice/Nan and any Curry in a massive quantity for about a Tenner. This was well worth sitting in for.

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Peter’s 65th Birthday Bash and Curry from Danny Singh’s.

Posted on August 31, 2013 by Hector

Today we gathered to celebrate Peter’s 65th Birthday. Craig and Yvonne hosted a Barrel of Pyraser Landbier and Löwenbräu (Buttenheim) Annafestbier. Not only has Peter covered the cost of the Bier so carefully driven from The Sources by Jonathan, he treated us all to a Curry from his favourite Takeaway – Danny Singh’s (26 Minard Rd, Glasgow, G41 2HN). Danny himself brought enough to feed the Assembled Sixteen at the arranged time of 17.00.

There was great anticipation about the promised Stornoway Black-pudding Pakora. Chicken Wings, Vegetable Pakora and Onion Rings were the other Starters provided. A Mass of Chapattis accompanied Naan Bread, Yvonne provided the Rice.

An Assortment of Mains was provided, no two the same. There was an Orderly Queue which Hector managed to avoid by taking charge of setting everything out.

The Chef’s Curry was spotted but on opening the container it was Chicken, no thanks. The Jalandhar had Lamb and heaps of Masala. Three quarters of this and two pieces of Naan were plated and taken out into the late summer sunshine. Tracey remarked on the Redness, I remarked on the Slight Sweetness. This was very much a Mainstream Curry, not the sort of Dish I would normally choose.

The Stornoway Black-pudding Pakora went down a Treat. Most people took Bits of Everything, Buffet-style. Not my style.

It was Curry, I like Curry. Hopefully next time the Takeaway will come from Yadgar.

The Aftermath

Steve admitted that he too had Curry for Lunch making his first visit to Shahed’s. He was impressed. Some challenged Clive and Hector to go for a third Curry later this evening, I’m not in Bradford.

Update – September 2017

This Takeaway has closed, the business will now operate  solely from the Victoria Rd, Restaurant – Danny Singh’s Gandhi.

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Glasgow – Return to the – Excellent – Cafe Reeshah

Posted on August 31, 2013 by Hector

Cafe Reeshah (455 Shields Rd, Glasgow, G41 1NP) is definitely off Hector’s well trodden paths. There is a cluster of Curry Cafés in Pollokshields. I still have a couple to investigate but that will be made all the more difficult given the quality of Curry served here. I phoned yesterday to ensure they would be open at lunchtime, they are in fact open every day at noon. Lord Clive is in town, the very man who was mentioned in my last report from these premises. There would be no floor-show today, just the serving of some very impressive Curry.

Having purchased a Day Bus Ticket last night, we took the bus across the River to the eastern side of Pollokshields. The walk along Albert Drive revealed two more possible venues for Hector to visit. The walk from Shields Rd. Subway Station could well have been shorter, but today was a Bus-Day.

Arriving at 13.30, some thirty minutes later than planned, the sign on the door said – Open. The two tables were unoccupied as anticipated. I asked for permission to sit and then took in the Dishes on display at the counter. Asian Style Curries – is how the new Menu describes the desired fare. Chicken on-the-bone, Lamb on-the-bone, Mince, Daal, Aloo Gobi and Channa are available everyday. We have everything today – was how Mein Host summarised the food on display. They will also cook the Standard Curry Dishes that one would find in any Curry House, but why have that when the authentic is available? Maybe next time I’ll phone in an order for a Karahi in advance and see what they can create.

A Repeat Performance

The Keema Mutter was the stand-out Dish on my last visit, but the Aloo Gosht looked irresistible. Hector is nothing if not consistent. I ordered a portion of Aloo Gosht (on-the-bone) and a half portion of Keema Mutter, exactly as I had ordered last time. Meanwhile Clive was studying other Dishes. Palak Gosht (Boneless) was his first choice, then Mein Host mentioned – Starters. Once the words – Shami Kebab – had left his lips Clive was excited. Clive can never refuse the offer of a Shami Kebab. We had Chapattis in mind but were persuaded to try the Peas Rice and reduce the Chapatti order to two.

Sparkling Water does not feature in many Southside Curry Cafés, Rubicon Mango does. That should be enough, we took our seats.

The Other Chap brought Clive’s Shami Kebab very quickly along with a plate of Raita which neither of us touched. Spicy – was Clive’s immediate remark. The Shami Kebab disappeared very quickly, he should have ordered two.

From the counter, Mein Host asked if I had been at Cafe Reeshah before. When I showed him the Curry-Heute Website on the Trusty Samsung he remembered me and even pointed to where I had sat. That was back in March… I had intended to be back long before this but such is the quality of what is served in Glasgow currently it takes a long time to get round my favourite places. Mein Host told us that he had only taken over Cafe Reeshah at the start of 2013, and was only in his second month when I first visited. Business has been good.  As described on my last visit, the welcome is a warm one, they give their very best.

A modest portion of Aloo Gosht and a very generous half-portion of Keema Mutter accompanied the delivery of Clive’s Palak Gosht. We had enough Curry in front of us. The Rice was to share and there was plenty to do so. The Chapattis were brought individually as they were cooked, the realisation hit us very quickly, one Chapatti would have been enough. The second was left intact.

Six pieces of Lamb, two of which were more Bone than Meat sat in a splendid Masala with a mass of Potato. The Aloo Gosht was in the Shorva style, well almost. The Masala was a good bit Thicker than most Shorva style Curry Dishes I have encountered to date. Close to the classic old-fashioned Oily, Spicy Masala, this was pretty impressive. The Lamb was very Tender, and eaten with the Peas Rice, most enjoyable. Had I only been eating this, a second portion would have been summoned.

The Keema Mutter had to be eaten with a Chapatti, again very impressive. With more Methi it would have been stunning. The Topping of fresh Tomato was a lovely touch. Hector was filling rapidly and was tested further when Clive offered me some of his Palak Gosht.

Clive was thoroughly enjoying his Dish, Excellent – was stated more than once during his visit. He was most impressed and appreciated that I had taken him to this out of the way (for us) venue.

The Bill

£15.00. Now where did he get that price from? We had been stuffed with quality Curry and he only charged this modest fee? I shall certainly be back, and so will my wife.

The Aftermath

I was asked for my Calling Card but inexplicably had none on me. That’s only the second time I have ever been asked for it and last time I was without also. Marg had to bail me out. I wrote Curry-Heute.com down for them. I introduced Clive and informed Mein Host that Clive was up from London (Crawley felt too specific). We were thanked for coming. Clive thanked me again for taking him.  I thanked him for treating me.

It’s a greater pleasure for me…

The next Curry is scheduled to be eaten in three hours.  I kid you not…

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The Punjabi Charing Cross, Hector’s Favourite Curry Venue North of The River

Posted on August 30, 2013 by Hector

It has been a very long week, this Work thing gets in the way of Enjoyment. Steve must have been in a similar frame of mind and decided to join Hector for the Friday Teatime Ritual Curry. The Punjabi Charing Cross (157-159 North Street, Glasgow, G3 7DA) was the chosen venue, Ballast before the promised Oakham Ales at Hengler’s Circus.

Hector nibbled on one of the Two Complementary Poppadoms with Spiced Onion for the few minutes before Steve’s arrival. The Menu was provided but never opened. Steve was happy to share a Keema Padora before a Boneless Lamb Gurmeet. To keep things simple, Hector went Boneless this evening also. Hari, Mein Host, was surprised that I opted out of Bones. He also noted – Keema Padora, Starter – which made me wonder if a Main Course version could be made available? That might be more than the Pleasure Points could endure. My request for One and a Half Chapattis was not taken seriously, Four in all were ordered.

This was Steve’s first experience of the wonder that is the Keema Padora. To come to the Punjabi and not order this Starter would now be unthinkable. The Driest of Mince with a Perfect Balance of Spice and Methi, served on a Puri – this definitely has – The Wow Factor! Steve was impressed, it will not be his last Keema Padora I suspect.

After a suitable break, Hari brought the two Karahis of Lamb Gurmeet. With no Bones, the Volume of Lamb felt appreciably more. The Lamb was cooked to perfection, Hari warned us that Bone Slivers may be present as the Chef had used the Stock from the On-the-Bone Pot in his preparation. As it happens, there were none. Instead we were treated to yet another consistently well produced Curry with the Delightfully Thick Masala featuring a Significant Methi content. The Seasoning was right on the Limit, more and the Dish would have been Salty. Without the presence of Salt, the other Flavours do not emerge. This had sufficient Seasoning to maximise the Pleasure Experience, in short, a Perfect Curry. The Chapattis were Huge, as ever. One and a Half is my limit. How does one secure a Half Chapatti?

Hari enquired afterwards if I had noted any difference between the Boneless and On-the-Bone versions. Whatever wonders had been done in the kitchen I had to admit that this was indistinguishable. This was Curry, cooked exactly to my requirements. Wonderful.

The Bill

£28.80. In some Venues this would be the charge for Two Mains.

The Aftermath

The Battle of The Brewers was well under-way. Oakham will win it hands down.

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