One München Curry Haus – One Indian Mango – One Fisch Chettinad

Posted on October 17, 2013 by Hector

The Indian Mango (Zweibrückenstrasse 15, 80331, München) has become the Highlight of any Trip to München. Arriving mid-afternoon the other München Ritual had to be got under-way. Maggie and Marg had wandered off for Coffee and Cake, it’s a Female Thing. When they returned to Augustiner Clive and Hector were almost finishing off the Edelstoff. Marg headed on down to Isartor on foot, we jumped the single stop on the S Bahn some minutes later. It was strange to walk into Indian Mango and see Marg waiting.

Herr Batra was out immediately to greet Hector. My second visit this year and it will not be my last. Fisch Chettinad is not on The Menu, Lamb Chettinad is. The Fisch version is always made to order, Clive was up for this Wondrous Treat too. What’s an Aloo Paratha? – Clive asked when I added this to the List. Why not? Maggie had just eaten Cake, Marg too but decided Fisch Pakora was required. The Aroma from our Curry spread around the Restaurant, it is Seriously Potent and grabs the back of the throat. The Saliva Glands were sensing Something Special was on its way.

Fisch Chettinad, Scharf

Two Bowls of Fisch Chettinad, two Bowls of Basmati Rice and the Fisch Pakora were set before us. A Single Aloo Paratha arrived thereafter.

There was a Serious Kick, the Dark Red Chillies were doing their job. The Gritty Texture was less apparent this evening but Curry Leaves were still visible in the Thick Mush at the base of the Bowl. Fish adds its own distinctive Flavour to any Curry, with the Thickest of Masala sitting beneath the Chunks of Fish this was a Taste Explosion. Some of the Fish had Breadcrumbs on it, this gave the Overall Texture a new slant.

Is it OK? – asked Mein Host. OK is not The Standard. – I replied. This was the Joy of Curry Eating at its Peak.

Clive was blown away. Excellent – he kept uttering. Well, I told him so. The second Paratha had to be re-ordered, it came at exactly the right moment. Maggie and Marg had helped themselves to a Quarter each. Eight Quarters would have been two too many. Six was ideal. Why can’t one order Half? I asked my Co-diners. There was more Basmati Rice on the table than Two Chaps could eat.

The Fisch Pakora

This did not last long. It too had Breadcrumbs. Marg considered this to be an Improvement on excessive Batter. The Pakora actually looked like Pakora. Those who have ordered Pakora here in the past have been puzzled by the Flat Array of Bits that come.

The Bill

€48.15. This included three Soft Drinks.

The Aftermath

Herr Battra offered us Mango Schnapps. Too early, and with the Forschungs Bräuerei our next port of call, not a sensible idea. A Mango Dessert was offered and three portions accepted. This was not for Hector, let the Tastes from the Fisch Chettinad linger on the Palate as long as possible.

I’ll be back…  Soon!

Posted in [Indian Mango] | 1 Comment

Erlangen – The Well-Seasoned – Curry House

Posted on October 15, 2013 by Hector

Needs Must

There has been a dearth of Kebabs on this trip so far, at least Curry-Heute is guaranteed. It’s a twenty minute train ride from Bamberg to Erlangen, a town which boasts some half dozen sources of Curry. Hector appears to be championing the Curry House (Helmstrasse 11, 91054, Erlangen, Bayern) currently, my second visit this year.

Arriving at 13.00 the place was proving to be as popular as ever. I have never seen this venue empty. Mein Host recognised me on entry and was once again happy to describe the dishes on offer. When Mutton Palak was mentioned it struck a chord. Clive was up for this too. Maggie and Marg both decided it was too early for Curry-Heute and ordered Chicken Samosas. An Onion Bhaji, Salad and Keema Naan were also added to Clive’s order. Hector added a Side Portion of Aloo. This with the accompanying Basmati Rice would be quite sufficient.

Maggie and Clive witnessed the creation of the Samosas and the Naan, from scratch. No simple reheating. The Chaps grabbed the bag of Flour and made the Samosa Pastry and the Naan on the spot. Meanwhile Marg and Hector were savouring the Rubicon Mango without fizz.

About ten minutes later we were called up to the counter and ferried the food to the table. The Masala for the Palak was on the runny side as it tends to be served in Deutschland. The Flavour of the Spinach was there but was not overwhelming. The Curry was well-Seasoned as it always is at this venue. Again the balance was about right.

The Mutton was in huge pieces, a mass of Meat and very Tender. The Potato Curry added the required Diversity. No Hector is not describing the Curry at this venue to be outstanding but it is certainly competently created and served with some self-belief. The Curry craving was sated.

Marg and Maggie gave a running commentary on their Samosas. Interesting, Fresh Pastry, Home-made. They liked the contrast that the two Dips created also. Marg also dipped the Masala that came with the Potato Curry. Success. The Salad arrived a good bit later and was Spiced. Turmeric in a Salad? This took Maggie by surprise.

This was Clive’s second visit to the Erlangen Curry House. Excellent, very good indeed – was his overall feeling. Once again he celebrated the creation of the Naan before his every eyes. This was a quality Naan apparently. I must try one someday.

Mein Host came over and asked – Is it too Salty?

Now I know you have read my Blog – was the reply. Well-Seasoned.

The Bill

€21.70, Paid in advance. This was for Marg and Hector’s share. Clive paid a comparable amount for himself and Maggie.

The Aftermath

We had to go to Kitzmann before heading back to Löwenbräu Buttenheim. It was written.

The Curry Capital 2013

News reached us later in the day courtesy of John, The Bradford Curry Blogger.  Bradford have won the Curry Capital Prize for the third year in succession with Glasgow in second place. The Curryspondents will know that Hector would always place the two Curry Sources in that Order.

Posted in Curry House | 1 Comment

Crawley – The Ram Sports and Social Club – Amusing, if not farcical.

Posted on October 12, 2013 by Hector

A Saturday Night in Crawley, it has to be one of two venues. The Ram Sports and Social Club (West Green Pavillion, Ifield Ave, West Green, Crawley, Rh11 7LX) as it now has been called for two consecutive visits has not so much gone through Evolution but Revolution since Hector’s first visit. (That’s not bad for a composition at 07.57 on a Sunday morning München bound flight.) Formerly Lal Akash, then a brief flirtation with SWAGAT, the name of this venue has a more local feel. The interior has developed from an ad hoc Curry House attached to a Cricket Club to a full blown Curry operation. The place is hardly recognisable now. One still has to pay an Entry Fee if one is not a Member, and don’t even think of turning up without a Reservation.

Lord Clive of Crawley sorted out his Membership at the door as we entered. Little did we know that the door would feature prominently in this visit. No, we were not shown The Door. Far from it, we had to make our excuses to be permitted to leave.

Clive’s Reservation was in the name of Clyde, fitting as he and Lady Maggie were entertaining two Scottish Diners. Drinks had to be secured at the refurbished Bar. Cobra was Clive’s call, it was a Saturday Night and Hector has been virtually abstemious this Holiday so far. Halfway through I was already missing the Sparkling Water. We found our table, the furthest one possible, and in a corner out of sight. A table of about ten were adjacent, the place was mobbed. It is unusual for Hector to report from such a busy venue.

It is written

The Lamb Mishkaki was the Dish which put this venue on the map.

On my first visit Clive had arranged for us to have this Starter as a Main Course. Dry Lamb Tikka which dances on the palate. With anticipation leading to salivation, this would have to be Hector’s Starter of choice. One might also trace the appreciation of Lamb Chops back to this very venue. Hector had never ordered totally Dry Meat prior to his first visit here. Marg considered a share of this but then the candidate changed allegiance and gave in to an Indo-Chinese Starter involving Vegetable Balls and a Chilli Sauce – Veg Manchurian. An Indo-Chinese fusion recipe mixed vegetables formed into balls then fried & lightly tossed with onions, ginger & garlic, soya sauce.  No Cheese then as I had thought whilst glancing at the menu.   Maggie fancied Garlic Mushrooms, and surprisingly, Clive asked for Shami Kebab, even though it was not on the menu. He knows, you know.

Behold Doris!

We’re in Crawley, so she must be Doris. Doris was tall, foreign, and this was her first day working in a Curry House. She knew nothing. What was about to befall us? A well-known and reliable Curry Website informed Hector, that on his last visit here, there were two Lamb Karahi entries on the menu. Lamb Karahi and Gosht Karahi, the latter being the Dry version. The SWAGAT Menu is no more, tonight there was only the solitary Karahi, I would have to ask, to reason…. Marg ordered Lamb Karahi and asked for the Capsicum to be withheld. The Lady now shares my disgust at the inclusion of this Alien Vegetable. I asked for the same but Dry. When Doris then asked for the Dish Number on the menu, the heart sank. It was about then that she realised the Karahi would be Main Courses. Maggie, still inspired by her recent trip to India, ordered Handi Lamb. Clive added another Lamb Karahi – Wot? No Chicken Dansak?

Four Roti, (£1.25) a Keema Naan, Aloo Palak, Boiled Rice and Mushroom Rice would be the Accompaniments. That was very nearly the last we saw of Doris.

Minutes later, a smaller but more assured Doris came over to tell us that Shami Kebab was not on the menu and was not available. Cue another Lamb Mishkaki. That was the last we saw of assured Doris.

Thereafter

I believe we must have been served by every male member of staff in the establishment during the remainder of our visit. One Chap would stand out in the end. The Starters were presented.

The Menu said Lamb Mishkaki had eight pieces of Lamb for £4.95. How many times has Hector counted fewer than eight in a Main Course? Marg took one piece, Hector tore into the remaining seven. Two of Seven were decidedly on the Too Chewy end of The Spectrum but still had the knock-out Flavours. Five of Seven were spot-on! The Lamb Mishkaki is an absolute delight and will keep the Ram Sports and Social Club on the Curry-Heute radar as long as it is served.  All eight of Lord Clive’s Lamb pieces were succulent he assured me. Why wasn’t Howard here? He would surely have been given my portion…

Marg’s Veg Balls were numerous, excessively so, she knew she was beaten at the outset. We all had a share. Far too close to Chinese Food for Hector’s liking. The palate could not cope with these Flavours accompanying real food. Too much sauce for Marg’s liking. The Garlic Mushrooms came with Onions and some Capsicum. It was essentially a Vegetable Curry. Given that the Starters were all served in significantly sized portions we knew we needed a rest. So, when the Chap who cleared the table asked if we were ready for our Mains we were in two minds. We said yes, the table of ten was still being dealt with, logically they would distract the Chaps pro tem.

A Minute Passed

Followed quickly by another minute. In fact The Full Robin had elapsed before another Chap spotted our table had been void of food for some time. We did see original Doris again, Clive asked for more Bier and we were told we had to go to the Bar ourselves. So it goes. A bottle of Kenyan Tusker came back courtesy of Clive. Poor, to the point of me wondering again why I had strayed from the reliable Sparkling Water.  Saturday Night…

The Helpful Hero

A Chap, who became Our Chap told us that Doris had put our Order Slip in the wrong place.  One can only speculate.  We had been lost in the system. Eventually Our Chap came with a tray of assorted Curry Dishes. Now things take a turn for the worst. He didn’t know what he had brought.

We are looking for three Lamb Karahi, two of which have No Capsicum and one is also Dry.

The portions of Curry were placed on the table along with the Aloo Palak. Another Chap presented the Roti,  Naan and Boiled Rice. Maggie had to ask again for the Mushroom Rice. The fourth Curry was lost in translation, Hyperspace, a Black Hole. Our Chap came back with a Lamb Methi and it sat beside the three original Curry portions. Maggie was given a Curry which looked no more Handi than Andy. But then, as with – Desi -, they can serve whatever they please under this nomenclature.

Hector now had a choice of Curry, I know the Lamb Methi here is outstanding. I was considering opting to commit myself to this when Our Chap whisked the Methi away. I chose the Driest of the three Karahi, the Dish which was also oblong as opposed to round. When the Mushroom Rice arrived Our Chap asked if we were happy. I told him I had asked for a Dry Lamb Karahi without Capsicum. I had at this moment just isolated the fourth piece of Mushy Vegetable and placed it on the plate beneath the karahi. He apologised and took the whole lot away.

The wait for the replacement was not over long which makes me wonder if this venue has dropped its standards. What came was pretty much identical to what Marg and Clive were having. Dry only appears to exist in the world of Mishkaki, not Karahi. Our Chap was so apologetic he actually sounded sincere. Apparently the regular staff were out elsewhere and the four/five stand-ins had not shown. He admitted he did not know one Curry from another and that was why he was unable to recognise the Individuality of the Order. Amusing, if not farcical.

Hector’s Dry Lamb Karahi without Capsicum contained Tender Lamb which became the focus of the Dish. The Masala was excessive but was better than Bog Standard. No Interesting Vegetable, simply Meat and Masala, not how I prefer to eat Curry. This does not of course imply a criticism, it was still Curry. One had hoped for something outstanding after the quality of the Starter. But then regular Readers will not be surprised that the Mains did not live up to the standard set by the outstanding Starters, when do they ever?

Chapattis were not on the menu, hence the order for Roti. They started to crisp up, however, as they were served quartered in a basket, the pieces nearer the base retained their Softness for much longer. Three between two of us would have been enough in terms of quantity, the fourth meant we had decent pieces to eat.

Clive ate three-quarters of his Keema Naan, the Boiled Rice was never touched. The Mushroom Rice appeared to go down well on the opposite side of the table. Clive stated that –  The Karahi lacked the sweetness of other Karahi, there was too much sauce. Very saucy, but still very good.

Maggie left a considerable quantity of her Masala which appeared to be a more Oily version of that which accompanied the Karahi Dishes. Maggie described the Handi as – Traditional Indian, lots of levels of spice but not too hot.  Most was off-the-bone despite the menu saying it was on-the-bone. What was, fell off easily.

Which part of Dry do people not understand? We don’t want Soup! The Spinach content of the Aloo Palak was appreciated, – Tasty. Maggie described the Mushroom Rice as – mediocre.  Marg surprised me by eating all of her Karahi, she was hungry and the wait between courses had let the Veg Manchurian digest. It was not too spicy, the right heat for me, and the meat was very tender.

The Bill

£60.65. Note, all Drinks were paid for separately.

The Aftermath

Our Chap returned and was again full of apologies. He admitted to being The Doorman and had been thrust into delivering the Curry. He offered us Starters, Dessert, Drinks, anything! On-The-House. Alas, we had an appointment at The Swan and a very early rise, 04.30 to be precise.

Next time I have a suggestion: Starters at the Ram Sports and Social Club, Mains at The Downsman?

To Bamberg (via München?), Casketeers! What might be avoided in Bamberg and celebrated in München?

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The New Cafe Salma

Posted on October 11, 2013 by Hector

It was a sad day when Hector and Marg said goodbye to Hassan at Café Salma (523 Sauchiehall St, G3 7PQ) at the start of the summer. In the last week news reached Hector that the Venue had reopened as – New Café Salma. After an excellent Curry at Akbar’s on the same block last Friday, I went in to meet the new owner, Tahrir. The Takeaway Menu had some Interesting Fish Dishes. I never did have my Farewell Fish Curry under the auspices of Hassan. So, how good would the New Cafe Salma Fish Dishes be? This evening at 17.00 I chose New Cafe Salma as the Curry-Heute Venue.

Two Chaps, The Staff,  sat in the window seat. They were just finishing whatever they had been consuming. The place was empty apart from them. Please sit here – said the Waiter who gestured to the window seat. The other Chap, the Chef, disappeared downstairs. I had to stand and wait while the table was cleared and made ready. The seat was still warm as I took my place – The Living Advertising Hoarding? I counted around forty other seats I could have been placed at. I was far from impressed by this antic.

The New Menu was presented. The Drinks Menu was already on the table. John, who tried the place midweek, had warned me about the price of Sparkling Water. Hector is not prepared to pay £2.45 for a 330ml Bottle, so – Tap Water please.

The Menu is set up with the price of all Murgh (Chicken Dishes) as standard. The Lamb variants are £2.00 extra. This would certainly make Lamb a bit pricey. The single Karahi on offer stated it included Capsicums, that would be create my usual challenge if ordered. A Bhoona looked the best Lamb alternative. However, Hector was here for the Fish. The Monkfish Achari Masala was speaking to me. At £13.95 this had better be good. Mushroom Rice would have to be the Accompaniment. It said Masala, let’s see just how much Masala comes with the Fish.  For the record, the Starters are well overpriced.

I had time to study the new layout. The décor had been changed markedly. With a single kitchen downstairs the upstairs is much roomier. Presumably the Ladies is still downstairs. This evening I had no reason to ask to go and inspect what has happened to the old seating area which was the feature of the former incarnation. I was assured my Dish would not be too long. I may have looked impatient, I was actually just taking in the scene.

A stand was brought to the side of the table. Why? The Karahi of Fish Achari was placed on the table with the usual Safety Warning – Don’t touch! The Rice had a Brown Hue and was more than enough for one. The Mushroom content was not overwhelming. I cannot now recall if they were Fresh or Tinned. Five Pieces of Fish had been placed in the Karahi with a Mass of Masala. The Masala was Worryingly Red, two thirds of the contents of the Karahi were spooned on to the Rice. Already I felt that this Dish needed more Fish.

The Monkfish was Rubbery. Not how I would have cooked or served it. Disappointing. The Masala had a Pleasant Tang but was closer to Sweet and Sour than Achari on my Palate. Still, far from Unpleasant. The Fish did not last long. I was down to Rice and Masala when I was asked how I was getting on. Well, he asked.

“Boy, the food at this place is really terrible.” “Yeah, I know; and such small portions .” (Woody Allen)

I’ve nearly finished. There was not very much Fish. The Fish was Rubbery too. I appear to be just eating Rice with Sauce.

I was finished moments later. Putting on the jacket I went up to the Counter.

The Bill

£16.90. This was reduced to £15.00. I’ll have a word with the Chef downstairs. – I was informed.  Was there an Upstairs Chef?

The Aftermath

No Calling Card was left, I gave one last Friday. I had said my bit. The Experience was far from Impressive. With three Hector Recommended Curry Houses within metres of the New Cafe Salma, they have their work cut out.

I’m still waiting for the Tap Water.

Posted in [New Cafe Salma] | 1 Comment

Masala Twist – The Helensburgh Curry Scene Hots Up

Posted on October 10, 2013 by Hector

The Fourth Day of Operation

There was a Strange Light in the Sky over Helensburgh this evening, a celestial sign? There is finally a Genuine Choice of Curry Houses in this coastal town in the West of Scotland, unlike this time last year.

Steve, Anthony and Hector met just before 17.00 at Masala Twist (James St., Helensburgh, G84), two former Colleagues were well ensconced, perhaps this venue is open all day. It’s hard to tell since the Masala Twist website is focuses on the Byres Rd operation. Even a precise address is not yet forthcoming.

Steve had popped in yesterday to check the Menu. No Lamb Chops?  Fortunately they were on the Menu, listed just under  the Starters. At £5.95 a Pop, £1.00 dearer than the Hope St Branch. Mmm. £2.00 a Lamb Chop, am I in an Egyptian Restaurant, again? If I click my heels will I find myself in Bradford where Lamb Chops are Attractively Priced?

Nevertheless

Two Portions of Lamb Chops were ordered plus Fish Pakora for Anthony. The Mains would be straightforward for Steve, Lamb Madras, and Anthony – Hyderabadi Dum Lamb Biryani. This is the man who ordered the Tajine on our last outing together at Café Salma. Not a – Vindaloo Man – then.

Hector was in two minds. Lamb Desi? Or make enquiries about the Karahi Bhoona? Could Capsicum be avoided? Which would be more Dry? Which had more Flavour? I decided to tackle the Waiter with the latter.

Which of these two Dishes will blow me away? Somewhere in the discussion Dry took us towards Karahi. The Karahi would be Tikka Lamb, not required. Capsicum had to be avoided. What alternative Vegetable would you like? Potatoes! Ah well.

A Plain Paratha and a Vegetable Paratha would be the Accompaniments, apparently the Biryani comes with Rice (!). Truly.

When the – The Sir Howard Young – opened its doors, a significant part of the former furniture shop did not become part of the pub. It became a charity shop for a while until a few weeks ago when the Masala Twist banner appeared in the window. This venue is quite spacious and simply decorated. It is fully licensed and fortunately sells Sparkling Water by the Bottle at a modest £1.60. The kitchen is visible at the rear through a large window. The Chefs have been brought down from the Glasgow Branches, as have some of the Waiters to maintain the level of continuity this Curry Chain requires.

The Starters arrived each with a Modest Salad and Two Dips – One Red and Spicy, the other Green. Was it Mint and Mango or just Mint? I didn’t try them, Lamb Chops! Hector found the Lamb Chops to be up to the expected standard, but at £5.95 a portion, definitely – more-ish. Steve did not consider the Lamb Chops to be as – Melt in the Mouth – as The Menu suggested. Our teeth were collectively sharper by the time we had finished. Meanwhile Anthony’s Fish Pakora had disappeared without much comment. Or were we too busy gnawing? There was a comment – Good texture and taste, didn’t need the dips, Mint Sauce with Fish? So, no Mango in the Mint Sauce then.

Mein Host cleared the table and asked if we were ready for The Mains. Apparently we were. Fortunately there was a bit of a gap between.

The Former Colleagues came over to exchange views. They had thoroughly enjoyed their Meals. They’ll be back. What Curry Website?

A Brief Panic

Chicken Karahi? Sorry, Lamb Karahi! The Madras and the Plain Paratha accompanied. The Biryani and the Masala arrived soon after with the Vegetable Paratha. I have raved about my previous Parathas at the two Masala Twist outlets visited to date. They were outstanding. This was darker, thicker, more greasy. Steve’s looked both Oily and Flaky. We shall see.

Heisenberg

Hector having photographed The Starters was in full – David Bailly – mode. Mein Host was nearby. I shall tell you why I’m taking so many photos later – I offered. He came over and introduced himself and called me by name, and – Hector – is not how he addressed me. Not only was I was expected, the Curry Mask had been unveiled.

The Madras and the Karahi were not dissimilar in appearance. Steve’s verdict on the Madras – Thick, tomatoey, garlic, hot, Lamb was tender. What one expects from a half-decent Madras.

Hector suspects the Madras and the Karahi came out of the same pot. A Thick Lamb Stew – was the overall impression I was left with. It was – Lamb with Potatoes, the latter thankfully the lesser of the two. The portion was more than sufficient, with the Paratha certainly filling. The Lamb was Tender, the kick commensurate with Curry. This Karahi was more Mainstream Curry than what was hoped for.

I shall have to return and see if they can match, or even improve upon the impressive Karahi Dishes I have experienced in their other outlets. And as for the Vegetable Paratha, Ditto.

Meanwhile, The Pearls in The Rice Corner

Anthony was left with a significant quantity of the Masala that was meant to be poured over his Rice. It was Soup. A Spicy Soup as it turned out.

Very tasty – was Anthony’s verdict. A subtle blend of Spices and not straying into Stew and not overpowering the Lamb. The accompanying Masala was slightly over-robust for my untutored palate.

The End Game

Apparently I arrived at the Byres Rd branch and met Raman just as they were setting up the Hope Street branch. The same was repeated when I went to Hope St, Helensburgh was then being set up. Mein Host was more than familiar with Curry-Heute. He was intrigued by my Curry plans for the immediate future. This is – National Curry Week.

The Loyalty Card was acknowledged immediately. They are awaiting delivery of one for the Helensburgh outlet. All who ask will be given one and the corresponding 20% discount.

Tonight’s meal was discussed. The Chef who cooked – The Best Paratha I had ever eaten – in Hope St. was the same Chap who cooked this evening’s. What happened? The Dreaded Capsicum was brought up, as it were. – Why? It was acknowledged that in the Punjab, Green Peppers are not used. The Indians have Karahi, there they are. For me it’s not a matter of taste, but the wrong – Texture.  It was confirmed that any Menu which describes a Karahi as a – Stir-Fry–  is basically – Wrong.

It was agreed I need to try the Desi. Next time.

The Bill

£48.63. This was after the 20% Discount. Now, why was I happy to spend £5.95 on Three Lamb Chops? An OK price for a Starter and a Main Course.

The Aftermath

I was permitted to take some photos as I left. It all makes for better Blogging. One suspects this venue will be very busy this weekend.

Posted in Masala Twist | 1 Comment

An Anniversary Curry at The Village

Posted on October 5, 2013 by Hector

October 5, 1973, the day Hector started University. Forty years later, the The Five were reunited for the first time in over twenty years. An afternoon at The Staggs (Musselburgh) reached its Natural Conclusion. Sam and Hector found themselves back in Glasgow, Curry was required. With no immediate train to Charing Cross, we jumped in a Taxi at Queen St. The Punjabi Charing Cross was the intended destination until, on a whim, I redirected the driver to The Village (119 West St., Tradeston, Glasgow G5 8BA). Currently resident in Hong Kong, Sam does not have a huge range of places to have Curry, one in fact. Instinct made me choose The Village. Serendipity once more.

Entering through the original door on Nelson St., I was directed towards the seating area by, that’s not Kassif, yet it is… Mehran, a younger brother.

A Waitress came over with the Menu Card and asked if we wished Poppadoms. I asked if Kassif was authorising these, he was over immediately to confirm these were Complementary. BHHIP.

Daddy then came across, Mr. Baig himself. I introduced Sam who was by now taken by the sound of the Village Lamb Desi Kourma. Mr. Baig took the Order himself. I opted for the Lahori Karahi as Dry as, and with Extra Methi. Four Chapattis would accompany.

The Poppadoms came with a good portion of Spiced Onion. Sam was instantly taken by the Viscosity of the Red Sauce. He was even more impressed by the Taste. Good start then.

What had looked like quite Empty Premises on entry turned out to be busy on the West St, end. A Party was well under-way. Weans were heard, lots of them. Was it a Kiddies Curry Party? Fortunately, given the size of the revamped Village, there was Space.

The Village Lamb Desi Korma is the only Soup-like Curry served anywhere which Hector would recommend. It was hard to tell the Meat Quantity within the Masala, but given the time spent eating it must have been more than adequate. I did like the addition of Sliced Almonds sprinkled across the top. Sam loved the Curry. One might even say he was Gob-smacked. Welcome to The Village.

The Lahori Karahi was well up to the Anticipated Standard. The Quantity of the Tender Lamb above average and a far cry from the Minimalist Portions of a couple of years back. One problem hopefully laid to rest. The Masala was Thick as requested, the Flavours spot on.

A Bowl of Raita accompanied the Curry.  I wasn’t quite sure about the timing.

We have a Curry Saturday planned for two weeks today. I suspect I may have this by the Half-Kilo. There can be no Higher Recommendation.

Marg arrived. Our lift home, great timing. I went up to see Irram on the till.

The Bill

£23.60. This included the Large Bottle of Sparkling Water, shared.

The Aftermath

I had a chat with Kassif and his sister, Irram. A Booking was made for October 19, on a piece of paper. So much for their Electronics. So, who’s all coming?

Posted in The Village "Curry House" | 1 Comment

Akbar’s – Bradford Curry in Glasgow

Posted on October 4, 2013 by Hector

There could have been a problem after last weekend’s Bradford Curry Extravaganza, how does one follow that? Hector was happy when Alan suggested that we book a table for this evening at Akbar’s (573-581 Sauchiehall St, Charing Cross, Glasgow, G3 7PQ), Glasgow’s outlet for the Bradford Curry Chain. Unbelievably some eleven months have passed since my last visit. This must say something about the overall quality of Curry available in the City of Glasgow. I note also that my previous visits have been in clusters, so don’t be surprised if Hector finds himself back here soon. If only they opened earlier.

BHHIP

Mein Host greeted us with his customary warm welcome and immediately asked where I had been. We were shown to the Bar whilst our table was sorted. Whilst we were making up our minds whether to pay for this first round or add it to The Bill, Mein Host came over and instructed the Serving Waitress to put this round of Drinks on The House. This is not the first time this much appreciated gesture has been made. Being Hector has its Privileges.

Three Starters between the four of us should suffice. Marg would sample some of Hector’s Machi Masala. Alan and Tracy ordered Lamb Chops and Chicken Wings respectively. Our Waiter for the evening was new to us. He had the balance perfect between being attentive and not being in one’s face which has been a bit of a problem here. We were not pressurised into ordering Poppadoms. If they’re not brought, why order them?

Tracy chose Chicken Tikka Desi for her Main Dish, and Alan the Karahi Gosht. I did persuade Marg that she should try my normal stalwart the Roshan Lal and in the Desi style. I promised her it wouldn’t be too Spicy. Now how close to the perfect Curry could this venue serve? I decided to negotiate a Dish not on the Menu. Lamb Chops with Extra Methi in the Achari style. This would appear to be Hector’s current Curry obsession. This was not a problem. Marg and Hector would share three Chapattis (£.0.75). Alan and Tracy would share a Garlic Naan with extra Garlic and extra Butter. We were told exactly how long the wait would be for each part of the order. By the time we would finish the Starters the gap between these and The Mains would be sufficient and in no way excessive. A good touch, and they kept to the schedule.

A Complimentary Salad accompanied the Starters. The Machi Masala was cooked to perfection. Cooked in Batter, it was truly Fresh and had a suitable Kick. As good a Single Fish as one could hope for. But where was the Masala?

Tracy enjoyed the Chicken Wings but did say it wasn’t Nando’s. Evidently. Alan was keeping his reviews to a minimum – OK. He would become more verbose after his Karahi Gosht.  The Lamb Chops portion looked Plentiful.

Behold The Naan

Yes, there are quite a few photos of the Naan in this Bulletin. Akbar’s pioneered the vertical skewer, quite a visually impressive presentation. But do the Naan coatings drip off? Even more Garlic and Butter – was the comment made by those who ate it.

The Roshan Lal was up to standard, I know because I was permitted more than just a sample. Marg did find it to be Spicier than she would have preferred, but the days of her ordering Korma are well in the past. She coped but cue Doggy Bag #1.

The Hector-Creation was wonderful. People say – the Meat just fell off the Bone. I have never witnessed this before with Lamb Chops. The Bones retained some of their Meat, however, about half was on the base of the karahi. The Best of Both Worlds. The Chops had been well marinated as one would expect. The Masala was so Thick it was indistinguishable from the Lamb at times. Fresh Chillies had been added, a Kick too. The Bradford Flavours? Oh yes!

The Third Chapatti was becoming tired and starting to Crisp. I summoned our Waiter and ordered a Fourth Chapatti. I certainly would need this to do Marg’s Roshan Lal justice. It came in minutes. Now given the Restaurant was mobbed this simple request could easily have become lost in the hustle and bustle. We were being well looked after.

Across the table there was more than Naan eating going on. Tracy tends not to finish a Main having had a Starter. Cue Doggy Bag #2. I’m looking forward to Breakfast – was her positive take on her Meal. The Karahi Gosht was – alright – said Alan. He then began to wax lyrically. That’s the Best Curry I’ve had in Glasgow since… Alan has been a great fan of the Harlequin Chain but one by one his preferred venues have disappeared. He is now a convert to Akbar’s. How do we get Alan and Tracy down to Bradford?  Cue Doggy Bag #3.

With certainly one (Masala Twist) and possibly two (site of Teak’n’Ash) new Curry Houses opening, our next Couples’ Curry may well be in Helensburgh.

More Naan References

A two year old girl magically appeared at the tabletop  beside us. She could barely reach the table but somehow did reach the bottom of the Naan to which she started helping herself. Our Waiter was over in a flash, her parents were mortified. How did she get off her high chair? Weans and High Chairs…

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There’s More

Three Coffees and an Ice Cream brought the Meal to a conclusion.  We are here to Dine – Alan reminded me for the n’th time this evening.  Now where did he get that expression?

The Bill

£76.05. Alan couldn’t believe it, even allowing for an extra round of Drinks, Coffees and a Dessert. Great Value.

The Aftermath

Mein Host asked me how I had enjoyed the Experience. This was not an automatic question. He genuinely wanted to know if I had any suggestions as to how they could improve. The Bill was lower than it should have been, the service Excellent. For a venue of this appreciable size, I think they have it spot on.

Café Salma has re-opened as New Café Salma. I popped in. The Waiter recognised me and introduced me to Tahrir, the new proprietor. Some of the Old Favourites are on the new Menu, but some very interesting Fish Dishes have been added. Tahrir said he would contact me, hopefully he will soon.

With the Bon Accord chosen as our Place of Retreat, we had to pass Hari at the Punjabi, with three Akbar’s Doggy Bags in hand. Maybe tomorrow – I told him.

Posted in Akbar's | 1 Comment

Bradford Curry Weekend – Curry #7 – Back to Kashmir

Posted on September 30, 2013 by Hector

Breaking Fast

The Kashmir Restaurant (27 Morley St, Bradford, BD7 1AG) was not the intended Curry Venue this morning.  More Wonderful Food from The International at Noon was the original plan until Clive discovered his train was earlier than originally perceived.  We needed a Curry House that was Open early!

Robin, (who takes no part in this saga) Clive and Hector drove up to the Sheesh Mahal to find them not open at 11.00.  There is a large sign in the upstairs window saying 11.30, oops.  We drove around to Lumb Lane to try the Sweet Centre.  There was no parking place to be found and so we headed back to the Sheesh Mahal.  There was no sign of life after the Official Opening Time – Back to Kashmir!

Well it couldn’t be Fish or Chana for Breakfast again, it had to be Keema.  Keema Mutter for Hector, Straight Keema for Clive and Jonathan arrived in time to add Keema Aloo.   Chapattis of course.

There were no Poppadoms this morning, but a Salad and Raita did amuse us briefly.  Once more, in the spirit of Breakfast, Clive ordered Fresh Orange Juice.

The wait was not long, it must have been easy for The Chef to turn this out, even allowing for the Variations.

Breaking Bad

A Healthy Plate of Mince and Peas, what better way to start a day?  Perhaps a bit more Seasoning, no better not, still too early, the Taste Buds must be massaged back into Life after Last Night’s  Onslaught. A very acceptable breakfast.

It is also the day to record the Denoument of Heisenberg.

As Jonathan and Clive summed up the Visit – Excellent, One really can’t expect much more.

The Bill

£17.80.  And this was for Three.

The Aftermath

Robin was sitting patiently in the car.  Hector drove back to Scotland.

Now for a lot of writing.

Posted in The Kashmir Restaurant | 1 Comment

Bradford Curry Weekend – Curry #6 – The International – Sublime Curry

Posted on September 29, 2013 by Hector

A Evening Curry at The International (40-42 Morley Road, Bradford, BD7 1BE), always a highlight of any Bradford Trip. So far Hector has had Good Curry and Not so Wonderful in the past couple of days.  Tonight would be one of those Memorable Curry Experiences. The Menu has much to offer in the Classic Karahi-style. Lamb on-the-bone is available as well as boneless. Hector had a Plan – Lamb Chops Achari. This is not on The International’s Menu and was first experienced in Glasgow’s Finest Source of Curry – Yadgar!

At 21.00 on a Sunday Evening, the place was remarkably quiet. Mein Host acknowledged Clive and I as we entered. One of my two Favourite Waiters was out to greet us, Behold, a Beard!

Four Complimentary Poppadoms and Chutneys were brought in a Flash as a Prelude to the Main Event. My order was accepted. Clive followed with Lamb Chops Karahi. Two Grown Men ordering Grown Men’s Curry. The Inclusive Chapattis were a matter of course, however, Hector decided to follow Clive. Two Keema Naans! We were offered the Chapattis too but persuaded our Glorious Waiter that they would go to waste.

The International operate a Two Portion Size System. What came this Evening could only be described as Massive. A Glass Dish, not the usual Metal was employed. The Masala was visible under Six Large Lamb Chops. These Chops were Bigger than Anything served to Hector, Anywhere, Ever! I sense a lot of Exclamations! I know the level of Perfection I am trying to Report.

Clive remarked upon the quantity of Masala under the Chops. He was expecting Dry. My use of Dry tends towards describing Thickness at times. I suggested he Dip his Keema Naan in the quite Oily Masala. Sheer Joy, this is where the True Bradford Curry taste comes from. Clive got the hang of it.

There was a Serious Kick. The Citrus-Achari was to the fore but not – in your face. The Seasoning exactly at the Required Level. The Marinated Chops had the Expected Knock-out Blend of Complex Flavours. The Combination of the Rich Masala, the Keema Naan and the Lamb Chops… this was one of these moments when whatever Curry is, proved it is The Best Food Man can eat.

Clive said – That was Pretty Good.

Hector replied – That was **** Outrageous!

The Bill

£23.40. The Full Bhuna, as it were, with two Keema Naans. One pays for the latter.

The Aftermath

The Other Waiter appeared, where had he been?

That was Curry!

Posted in International | 2 Comments

Bradford Curry Weekend – Curry #5 – Breakfast at Mughals

Posted on September 29, 2013 by Hector

Hector nearly walked…

The Plan was for the Traditional Breakfast served at Mughals (790 – 792 Leeds Road, Bradford, BD3 9TY). Ricky’s Plan involved a Rendezvous at Bradford Interchange at 10.45. This meant an early rise on a Sunday Morning, for Curry. Clive texted at 08.30 to say the 09.00 meeting outside the front door of The Travelodge was off. With time at a premium, a Taxi to and from Mughals was the only way to guarantee fulfilling the Breakfast Objective.

Hector entered the Curry Café just on 09.30 and took the Corner Table. A Family sat at the adjacent table, so they were first. After some ten minutes they were served, meanwhile the Young Waiter made no eye contact, and certainly made no effort to say – I’ll see you in a minute. The Main Chap was busy behind the Sweet Counter dealing with an endless stream of customers. Turnover was swift. The Family had their Food, the Traditional Breakfast and Two Seekh Kebabs. Still no service for Hector. On my other side were two Mature Gentlemen, one of whom was clearly a Well-Kent Face. All departing Customers came to pay homage. Was I invisible?

The Main Chap found a moment and brought a Jug of Water and a Glass. No Menu. Now what? I was informed Breakfast was all that was on offer – Fine. Breakfast please.

The Kitchen Staff were working flat out. The sound of Bread being slapped into shape was continuous. A Tall Pot was being ladled every few minutes, The Breakfast. Soon it was my turn to be fed.  The Young Waiter finally came across, with a Jug of Water and a Glass.  Oh!

He returned with Hector’s Breakfast.

A Plate of Chickpeas with Potato in a Yellow Masala was accompanied by a plate with two Puris. A third, Puffy Puri, came moments later. Here we go… When I produced the camera, a Chap in the Queue looked across and gave a knowing smile.

No Cutlery was offered and none asked for. Let’s stick to Basics. The Sweetness from the Puri complemented the Drier Flavours from the Chickpeas. The Masala, although Yellow, was definitely more Complex than a Curry Powder Creation. The few pieces of Potato gave a good change of Texture. How far was this removed from my usual Lamb Dishes?

Hector cannot eat Three Puris this early. I left contented and full. A Simple Meal.

The Bill

£3.00. Worth every Penny.

The Aftermath

A Taxi was outside, the Driver had just left Mughals. It was He who got me served as it turned out. He had asked why I had not been served. He also told me that Mughals is open for Breakfast at 07.30. A New Challenge. Somehow I don’t think Clive will ever be up for this…

Posted in Mughals | 1 Comment