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

 

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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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Glasgow – Comedy of Errors at Stereo, plus a First Visit to Spice of the City

Posted on August 24, 2013 by Hector

Life in the Land of Ghosts and Time There Was

It was a long day. The Monthly Trip to The Staggs in Musselburgh meant that Hector was not back in Glasgow until after Comedy of Errors were due on stage. It was just after 20.30 when I entered Stereo in Renfield Lane. Nobody at a desk, no tickets required. Free Entry!

The Band were some twenty minutes into their ninety minute set which featured a cross section of the current album Fanfare & Fantasy released earlier this year, plus Disobey which is now a couple of years old. I had just missed The Student Prince Parts 2 and 3, I would discover later when they closed the set with Part 1. Having only heard Fanfare & Fantasy a few times I cannot say I have been particularly grabbed by it, however Live…! The blend of new and nearly new kept the Gig going at a good pace. Hopefully Joe Cairney will send me thesSet-list as requested. The Highlight of the night was the Encore – Time There Was. This still remains my favourite Comedy of Errors song. I have the vinyl version of the Mini Album (Side 1, Track 2) but have long since abandoned the means of playing it. Somewhere in Hector’s House is a CD version of this and the cassette which followed, released in the days when Joe was absent. I have only heard Time There Was performed Live once, and I have seen Comedy of Errors many, many times since I first encountered them by chance in a basement Bar in Bath St, Glasgow – Shadows. They then disappeared for some years before re-emerging not wanting to be a Progressive Rock Band any-more. Fortunately somebody saw the light recently, meanwhile twenty years had passed.

As I was in no hurry to go anywhere I stayed behind and chatted briefly to Hew Montgomery who has been involved with the Band on a temporary basis in modern times.  I was first introduced to Hew of Abel Ganz in Rotherham at The Classic Rock Society by Martin Hudson some seventeen years ago. Next was Jim Johnston, Keyboard Player and Composer of the material. Jim is well through writing the next album, maybe Time There Was deserves an upgrade?

Mark Spalding, formerly Bass but Guitar for many years remembered the second time I saw the Band at a Pub in Paisley. Only three of us turned up. Finally, my first ever conversation with Joe whom I know is soon off to Malta for Ian and Carol’s Wedding. Thomas Bodin of The Flower Kings is also due to perform. Why do I have House-guests next weekend?

My next scheduled Comedy of Errors Gig is also in Glasgow on November 30th when they support Pallas who Produced The Mini Album back in 1986..

Time for Curry-Heute

It was after 22.00 when I entered Spice of the City (48-52 Oswald St, Glasgow, G1 4PL) a City Centre Curry House I have been passing for possibly years. In the Café-style it has been on my radar but with The Village and The New Karahi Palace just across the River Clyde, I have been eating elsewhere.

The place was empty. I tried to take a table for four at the window but was shown to a smaller table in the far corner. The Menu wasn’t vast but there was more than enough choice for Hector. Karelay Gosht and an Aloo Paratha was the order. However the Waiter was back moments later to inform me that – There’s no Karelay left.

Bhindi Gosht then.

The Décor is somewhat Spartan, Functional, an adjective I could also employ to describe the Service. I heard scraping noises from the kitchen. No Takeaway Orders were requested during my wait and so I concluded this was on my behalf. The wait was considerable, my levels of expectation rose. This was not just being chucked together.

After some considerable time the Waiter emerged with The Food. The Aloo Paratha was a good size but very Thin. The Potato had become Lost in Translation.

The Curry was Dry! It looked Amazing. The Blend of Onion and Tomato in the Masala was akin to Stir-Fry rather than a Boiled Sauce. The Lamb could have been greater in Volume but was Tender, very well cooked. The Okra had been cut Small but was Perfection, still a bit Crisp, how I dream of being able to serve it. Some Oil had gathered on the base of the Karahi but added to the Overall Flavour when the Paratha was Dipped. As is the Hector Norm, More Seasoning might have given this Curry – The Wow Factor. The Experience was reminiscent of the Curry served in the aforementioned New Karahi Palace. I must be overdue a return there.

The Bill

£9.00. A Good Price for a Well Above Average Curry.

The Aftermath

I placed the Calling Card on the counter – You can look at that if it interests you. The Waiter had made no attempt at conversation, I did not feel motivated to start one now.

Update August 2015

Hector never returned, perhaps the indifference of the staff stood out more than the food.

The premises are currently being converted into the much flashier – Chennai.

September should bring a review.

Glasgow Chennai Curry-Heute (1)

Glasgow Chennai Curry-Heute (2)

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The New Session Commences at The Akash- Helensburgh

Posted on August 23, 2013 by Hector

Back to work, Aaaargh….

Marg, Eleanor and Hector left the Throng of Assembled Colleagues, time for much needed Food. The Akash (45A Sinclair St, Helensburgh, G84 8TG) remains the Only Place in Town, though word has reached Hector that an application has been made to convert the old Teak & Ash to a Curry House, Flue permitting. The premises below The Akash are no longer a Pizzeria being presently converted to a Bookmakers.

There were only two other customers as we entered Helensburgh’s Legendary Curry House, our usual table on the top left was selected. Mein Host and the Head Waiter greeted us, Hector’s Fifth Visit since The New-co took over. They have done their very best to accommodate Hector’s Curry demands but maybe have not quite achieved this on previous visits. I was considering going Traditional and ordering a Vindaloo or Rogan Josh, but having photographed The Menu I never had a chance to open it. The Waiter came over and stated – I know exactly what you want. So that was it, I was in his hands. For the second time this week I have been tasked with eating what comes. One Chapatti would Accompany, but first there had to be the Customary Chicken Chat.

Marg chose the Lamb Karahi and Eleanor a self-declared indulgence,  Butter Chicken. Rice with Cashew Nuts would Accompany this. A Vegetable Pakora was also added along with a Chapatti for Marg.

The Vegetable Pakora at The Akash is always impressive – Served to Perfection – and – No Remorse – is what was recorded. The Chicken Chat now bears no resemblance to the Classic Akash version. With abundant Capsicum and the Chicken served in Large Pieces it filled a Gap but perhaps it is time to consider something new and leave the memory of The Classic Chicken Chat intact.

I have little to say about the Butter Chicken and the Lamb Karahi. The Masala content was way more than I would hope for, the consistency was fine, not runny. I didn’t get to sample either, I was too busy addressing what was set before me.

The Waiter approached smiling, a Magnificently Dark and Thick Lamb Dish was presented. The Methi content was complemented by the Fresh Coriander sprinkled on top. This is what they managed to bring at a second attempt when The New-co took over. The Kick was – Wow – demanding to say the least. I was in the mood for a Vindaloo, this hit the spot. There was a Citrus Burst too, one wonders – Do Hops ‘Curry’? The Lamb was Tender, I recall it not being as good as this on recent visits. This was as good as once could hope for. I had to be impressed.  A Methi Gosht Karahi to remember.

The Starter was taking its toll. Rather than force the last Morsels down I decided to take a Doggy Bag with the Masala that remained. This may well find its way into a Hector Curry Creation at a later date.

Jamie arrived and joined us for a Pakora. Very, Tasty, Very very Tasty, I would buy this again.

Mein Host came over and thanked us for coming. We expressed our Appreciation. The Akash is Back!  There will be at least another Five Visits this Session.

The Bill

£54.40. Complicated, but in effect Three Mains and Three Starters with Two Coffees and One Bier. Well within Acceptable Parameters.

The Aftermath

There had to be a Photo with The Head Waiter who had spontaneously offered Hector this Memorable Curry.

The Nights are fair drawing in, but it still wasn’t that dark as Marg drove up Sinclair Street…

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Bradford – Sheesh Mahal – A Sadaqat Challenge

Posted on August 21, 2013 by Hector

Get Well Soon, Omar

It was an Unfortunate Circumstance which brought Marg and Hector down to Cheshire at the start of the week. A stop-off in two of our favourite places in Yorkshire en route home was called for. Marg had Coffee and Cake with some xmas shopping to make her visit to Haworth comply with The Ritual. A Bradford Curry at the now Open-All-Day Sheesh Mahal (6 St. Thomas’s Rd, Bradford, BD1 2RW) was Hector’s Treat.

Sadaqat was sat without Customers and without Fuel. He informed us The Gas would be on within half an hour, we decided to wait.

The Wait was less than anticipated. The Complimentary Poppadoms, Salad and Dips appeared, negotiations then began about The Mains. Marg fancied a Lamb Chop Curry, or was it simply Lamb Chops? Sadaqat was in overdrive having had little to do since the start of his shift.

I shall make you a Curry you will never forget. The Full Monty, Asian-style! I reminded Mein Host that he had already tried me on Brains, Tripe and Testicles.

No Liver, I’ll try anything else.

A Special Salad was also mentioned.

As our stay was to be now longer than anticipated the car had to be moved. We were told that the derelict site beside the Westgate is available for Sheesh Mahal customers despite the painted wall warning people off.

Soup Served in Bradford?

Sadaqat brought two bowls of Soup. The British-like Soup. Now the number of times I have referred to the Masala that too many Curry Houses present as the integral part of Curry, as Soup … this was the revenge. Clearly this was from The Sauce Pot, it packed a little Kick and a beautiful taste. Ah, Bradford.

The Salad had an Apple Cider Dressing. The Green Chilli Peppers still had a massive Kick. Fresh and Tangy – was Marg’s verdict, though she stayed well clear of the Chillies.

Lamb Chop CurryA karahi containing five Lamb Chops in a sizzling Masala sat before Marg. We were both wearing white t-shirts…not clever.

Thank you, Sadaqat

Sadaqat brought The Full Monty. A plate-full of –  something. Hector was asked to guess. I could spot Egg, Onion, Tomato, Spring Onion, but the Meat? The possibility of today’s joke being – No Meat? – crossed my mind.

It is normal in Bradford to have the choice from four Complimentary Chapattis, a Paratha, A Naan, or Rice. Today, two Chapattis, one Naan and one Plain Paratha were brought. One suspects they were testing the Tandoor. Sadaqat admitted that he had been carried away with his Creation and did not expect me to finish. We could take as much away as we wished. He then described the Meat as being a combination of Lamb, Chicken, Keema, all reduced, plus Boiled Egg and Scrambled Egg all blended. All I had to do was eat it.

The Classic Bradford Taste was present. Apprehension, this was my only concern. My last Curry was Kofta-Egg, this was I suppose a variant, but like comparing Coal with Diamonds. A Fine Creation, an experiment, I was – The Victim.

Meanwhile Marg was swapping between Chapatti and Paratha to engage the Chops. The Masala was on the Thin side. Marg enjoyed three of five Chops. Oh good, that means…

The Bill

Whatever. Sadaqat said he could not charge for my Curry Creation, there was no price for it and it had cost virtually nothing to make. There’s an honest statement. 99p was his Ball-park Figure. In the end £10.00 felt an – Honourable Sum.

The Aftermath

Two Chops, 1/3 Creation, One Chapatti and one untouched Naan headed North.

Anyone want to sample – The Creation?

Three and One Half Hours Later

The remaining Chops and Chapatti were reheated. Gosh. Bradford Curry does it every time for Hector.  Is it the Seasoning?  I suspect its the Oil.  What do they do to it?

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Sheerin Palace, Glasgow – A Hector@Curry-Heute Recommendation

Posted on August 17, 2013 by Hector

Today’s Saturday ritual Curry-Heute was a no-brainer. After the superb Curry discussion at Shimla Pinks (Stirling) on Wednesday night, it had to be Sheerin Palace (300 Allison St, Glasgow, G42 8HQ). Kofta-Egg at Sheerin Palace had been firmly planted in the mind of Hector. Hardly subliminal.

As is the style at Sheerin Palace, the Dishes on offer were on display. The array was what Hector has come to expect, but still no repeat of Quail since my first visit. Maybe they will contact me next tome they are serving it? The Kofta-Egg sitting in its classic Red-Oily Masala was ordered first. Last time Howard and Hector shared a Fish Dish also. This was available but the Potato and Aubergine looked like a ew experience, today’s Interesting Vegetable.

A Half-Portion please. One Chapatti should be sufficient, they are Large.

Helping myself to the – Southside drink-of-choice – Mango Rubicon, I sat to the left of six tables. Two other Diners were present, two more would arrive.

Mein Host for the day brought a Modest Salad, Raita, a Jug of Water and a Glass. He also provided cutlery and enough napkins to wipe, whatever. Hector was all set.

The Salad was fresh and crispy, at first I thought it was the Raita but then concluded the Fresh Onion was giving – The Kick. No sooner had this consideration been formulated when the food arrived. No need to fear that the main constituents had just met the Masala, WYSIWYG.

Four good-sized Kofta – Meatballs and a single Egg made the portion. My last Kofta (Dundee) was not strong on the taste front, these had it. The Masala as I have written too often for this venue was as well established as Stonehenge, good, old-fashioned Flavours. The first Dip of the mammoth Chapatti soaked in enough Masala to make me wonder why I have not been here for eighteen months. Under-seasoned was also noted, however this viewpoint was soon revised.

The Potato-Aubergine Curry  is now reported as Aubergine-Potato, the latter was sadly lacking. Tomato and Onion also featured in this Vegetable Curry Mash, Earthy, as I like it. As a stand alone Dish this would not have been satisfying, as a Complement it defined the term. Some of the Aubergine found its way into the Masala, now we are talking. Between the Chapatti, the Aubergine, the Kofta, the Egg and the Masala the balance of Seasoning reached true perfection. The overall Flavours were not necessarily at – The Wow – level, or were they? The Meal was thoroughly enjoyed.

I thought of The Fish sitting not ordered, uneaten but then thought better.

Not the biggest of portions, but bigger than Tapas restaurants, a happy medium? It’s best to come here and order more than one Dish. The Bill reveals all.

The Bill

£8.20. Rounded down to £8.00.   At this price, Everyone can eat here Everyday.

The Aftermath

I wasn’t sure if the two more mature Chaps I had spotted were c. The young chap who had served so capably throughout was who I was dealing with.

I should come here more often – I stated as I approached the counter to pay.

The Calling Card was handed over, for the fifth time. My visits have been sporadic.

Ah, Hector, I read your articles.

After five Visits,  Sheerin Palace deserves promotion to my list of Recommended Curry Houses.

In the weeks of my summer vacation I have posted many new venues, perhaps it is time for Hector to get back to basics. I feel the Southside Curry Cafés are all due for another visit.

But watch out for a surprise mid-week Curry Heute…

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