Horley – New Curry Bengal

Posted on September 20, 2012 by Hector

‘Planes and Curry

Clive spent a considerable amount of time researching the Curry Houses within either a twenty mile or twenty minute radius of Gatwick. With the easyJet flight from Glasgow on time, Hector was collected by Lord Clive and Lady Maggie and whisked off to Horley, scene of a splendid Curry-Heute at the Jai Ho in July of this year. Our booking for the New Curry Bengal (25 Station Road, Horley, RH6 9HW, Surrey) was for 22.00, we were a few minutes early. This did not matter, we would be the only Diners.

An Award Winning Restaurant, Clive informed me en route – what Honourable Person accepts an Award? The Chef was flown over to LA by Beyonce to cook her a Curry is a Saga that is reported on the Website for the New Curry Bengal. Somehow I suspect that this was not the Chef who prepared our meals this evening.

We were offered Poppadoms, they were not brought automatically, so we know what that means. The table for four was small, with the Menus in hand there already little space. Being the start of the Holiday Weekend Hector permitted himself a pint of Indian Lager. We were offered both Kingfisher and Cobra. Clive confirmed that both were on draught. A Pint of Kingfisher and a Bottle of Cobra were then presented. By this time Maggie was raving about the Poppadoms – Fresh and Crispy – how they should be. That this could have been the highlight of the meal was as yet unknown to us. There was sufficient Mango Chutney and Onion for the three of us with two Yoghurt Dips.

The Menu was like something from the 1970s with added Balti. Hector could only find one Curry in the Specials List that might suit, there was no sign of Karahi or Desi-style dishes. The Ada Kata Lamb was a possibility – Lamb strips tossed in a whole roasted spice and fresh root ginger – whatever that means. I checked, the Lamb was Tikka Lamb, scratch this. There were no more Specials that were not either Chicken or Lamb Tikka. This left the classic Curry dishes and so as I normally do in such a situation I ordered the Meat Vindaloo. Why does a Menu revert to Meat?  And why the – New Curry Bengal? At a little over £5 compared to the £8 for the Specials I felt entitled to order a well priced Side – the Aloo Gobi. The Waiter later read it back as Aloo Sag and had to be corrected. Assuming the worst, I dismissed Chapattis (90p) and opted for Plain Pilau Rice.

Maggie who was once again reminiscing about the wonderful food she and Clive experienced in India earlier this year, insisted on pronouncing the Murgh Mumtaj correctly. Clive managed to sneak in a Shami Kebab along with his Garlic Murgh Chilli. One more Pilau Rice for Clive and a Mushroom Rice for Maggie, who was hungry.

It did feel somewhat strange sitting alone in a decent sized Restaurant on a Thursday night.

A Trolley was pushed out with the majority of the dishes. The Meat Vindaloo was placed upon the Plate Warmer – Soup! Maggie’s Murgh Mumtaj looked very interesting – a piece of rolled Chicken covered in a Korma-style Masala. Clive’s Garlic Murgh Chilli looked the most aggressive of the three dishes with its single large Red Chilli sitting proudly on top.

Two out of three ain’t bad – it’s ridiculous!

Maggie broke the seal on her Roll of Chicken. It had been described as being Mild and having Spice and Herbs. The photo of the interior shows why I will never have a Chicken Curry, how can there be anything exciting about this? Maggie found the dish to be exceptionally Mild and too Coconutty. The Mushroom Rice was hardly touched. In the end a good bit was left – this meal did not impress.  One assumes Maggie was still hungry.

I poured the Sauce on to my plate with some of the Meat. It was as if no Onion had been harmed in the creation of this dish. The Meat, Lamb possibly, was tough. It had also most likely been introduced to the Sauce moments before being served. There was no flavour to take note of at all, there was no heat. This was a Vindaloo? Did it deserve to be served up as Curry?

There were some pieces of Potato so I had to question my own order when I added some of the Aloo Gobi to the plate. It is just as well I ordered this Side. The Aloo Gobi was the very good indeed. A Dry and Thick Masala oozing with flavour and a very decent Kick. The Side was Spicier than the Vindaloo – by far!  A full plate of this and a couple of Chapattis would have been far more satisfying.

Clive was a bit behind Maggie and I having taken care of his Starter which of course came with his Main. Light on the Spices – not the best Shami Kebab was Clive’s comment as he started piling the Chicken on to his Pilau Rice.

He had little to say about his own Garlic Murgh Chilli other than it was Spicy too. I tasted a bit of the Masala – now here was a Curry! If Howard had been here he would have insisted on exchanging meals so that Hector would have the best one. The Masala was very well Spiced indeed. The classic Indian  Curry flavour achieved through the blend of Onion and Red Chilli was to the fore. Although still far too runny, this at least was the basis for a decent Curry. If only it been offered in Lamb, sorry – Meat.

 When the Waiter came over to check on our progress there was none of the usual – Fine. Having watched the Photos been taken of every part of the meal he must have guessed. Indeed, for the first time the Diners do not appear themselves. You can read about it tomorrow was my response on our behalf.

The Bill

£48.50. This did include exceptional items – two Indian Lagers. £3.30 was for the Poppadoms and Dips.

The Aftermath

The Calling Card was placed on the tray as Clive did the Credit Card trick. There was no comment when I announced that a revue would appear on my Curry Blog.

With Hindsight, I could have asked for a Tender Lamb Chettinad, not on the Menu (Chicken Chettinad is) but possibly a dish they might cook well given Clive’s order. Perhaps somebody will ask for this one day and let the Hector know.

There was a mad dash to The Swan for last orders. Fortunately they are open until midnight on a Thursday. How Professional of Clive not to know this…

Posted in New Curry Bengal | 3 Comments

The Village Curry House is Open – for Curry!

Posted on September 17, 2012 by Hector

The Village Curry House (119 West St., Tradeston, Glasgow, G5 8BA – I shall have to get used to this alteration of address) has been through a lot in the past thirty months or so.  The temporary re-location dragged on, and on.  Every month that passed made one wonder if the project had become a White Elephant.  Five days ago, Archie – a Southside Curryspondent for Curry-Heute, informed Hector that the opening was imminent.  I telephoned and could only be told that it would be sometime over the weekend.

Hector has been without Curry for too many days.  The scheduled late arrival in Mainz on Friday night did not permit a Bier and a Curry.  It was a Friday night in Deutschland, Bier won.  The planned Sunday afternoon Curry in Frankfurt am Main was abandoned because DB were not operating at their customary level of efficiency.  It was the aftermath of The Weekend, The Village must be open by now…

I entered the New Build, gosh! this is an impressive construction.  This Website has shown many Blog Entries with the former Industrial Unit under redevelopment.  The windows were always whitewashed, the interior was not visible.  This conversion is certainly a major breakthrough in the Glasgow Curry Scene.  Hopefully the quality of the food would be at the expected standard.

I was shown to a table for two at the beginning of the new vast eating area.  There were about a dozen co-diners.  The Takeaway business remains steady; everything there is so new and shiny.  What an improvement!  The Head Waiter – he was not wearing the new Village Curry House shirt, recognised me.  This took me slightly aback.  This is my first Village Visit this year!  Given the frequency of my custom over the last six to seven years it was slightly embarrassing.

The Black, Silky New Menu was brought; I had to study it and asked for ten minutes to do so. The Village Curry House Page on my Recommended Curry House List now provides the detail.  A straightforward Lamb Lahori Kirahi was surely new.  No Laal Lahori!  The Spellings of dishes have changed also. The first three items on the Village Signature Dish section showed that finally the dishes are available by Weight as well as by Portion.  Yippee!  A Half-Kilo of Lamb Lahori Kirahi it was to be.  The Vegetable Rice at The Village has always been a standout and so for old time’s sake I ordered the Special Rice. For the record, Chapattis are 95p each, so the Bradford custom of inclusive Chapattis has yet to come North.  I was provided with Two Poppadoms and a serving of Onion Chutney, Complementary one assumed.

I was asked how Hot I wished my Curry.  Hotter than Medium was my reply.  Desi the Waiter remarked.  He returned a few moments later to inform me that my Half Kilo of Lamb would be on-the-bone.

 Ladies and Gentlemen, this is the whole point of the Larger Sized Portion!  In a Standard Portion, by the time one deals with the Bones there is the realisation that not a lot of Food has been eaten.  A Half Kilo ensures total satisfaction.  There is always a Doggy-Bag – when did Hector last need a Doggy Bag?  I do not think this Curry Hound has ever resorted to this… for his own meal…

Master Baig acknowledged my presence, another familiar face.  One Chef has been a constant throughout my years at The Village; I have often speculated that he must be – Family.  Mr Baig, The Proprietor, was also on the new Premises, busy sorting whatever.

I had time to take in the new surroundings.  I had also been given permission to go on a Photo-Shoot once I had eaten.

A young waiter in the new Burgundy Shirt brought my Kirahi and Rice.  This was a new Metal Serving Bowl, never has so much Village Curry been set before The Hector – here we go.

The Yogurt content was very subtle.  The Masala was absolutely minimal.  The Oil gathering at the Base of the Bowl was within acceptable parameters – some of the Village Curry servings were becoming too Oily.   The Flavour was Classic Village with a bit of The Khyber added.  This was maybe down to the Fresh Green Chillies which had been liberally sprinkled over the Dish.

The Rice had an aroma of Clove, but not excessively so.  Peas and Mushrooms were the added Interesting Vegetables – a good combination.

The joy of the Half-Kilo is that when one gets to what would normally be the end, there is that bit more. The Tender Lamb was cooked to perfection – as one would expect at this establishment. I had some ten Bones left on my plate.  The appetite had been sated.  Mission accomplished.

The Bill

£19.45.  So the Poppadoms were Complementary.  This is some £6.00 above the normal Portion price, and worth it.

The Aftermath

The Waiter and Young Master Baig were happy to chat about the redevelopment.  I asked about the Blackboard – where the Daily Specials have featured.  Daily Specials will continue – it is early days yet.  The place only shifted back across the street four days ago and they had a Wedding two days ago.  Officially, The Village is not open – two more weeks and they will have a major Advertising campaign – on TV too!  The Young, ever so charming waitress, was appointed as my Guide and took me around the Premises.  The Stairs are impressive in their design.  I was taken into the Private Upper Room and banged my head on the way out – careful!  This is still to be fitted out. The Balcony will be different.  No Kids up here I was assured. How do I guarantee a regular seat? The entrance to the Toilets is also ornate.  They must be an infinite improvement on what was once provided.  It was only at the far end of the seemingly endless room that I realised that there was a new doorway from West St, their new address!  Mr Baig was still busy, however we exchanged a few words.  He must be a Happy Man to see this Project completed.  I had to ask about the Bellahouston In the Park outlet, he intends to keep it going too.

I suspect The Friends of Hector will all wish to partake in a Curry Ritual at the new premises of The Village Curry House –  I may well have to accompany them.

A Half-Kilo of Village Lamb Desi Korma, on-the-bone…

Posted in The Village "Curry House" | 1 Comment

Rasoi Indian Restaurant …of the year 2012…in Lenzie…

Posted on September 9, 2012 by Hector

The afternoon began with Hector watching the Scottish Ladies playing an International Hockey Match in the company of Marg, their former Captain. Scotland won, pity I could not report this yesterday for the only Sport that counts… Readers may wonder why there are no photos of Charming Ladies playing Hockey, Hector did not have his SLR with him, keeping a low profile.

Thereafter we headed towards Twechar in search of a famous pub, it was not revealing itself. Instead we walked up the Bar Hill to the site of a Roman Fort and a section of the Antonine Wall. It was soon Curry O’clock. A Curry in Lenzie was calling. Lenzie, the town where Hector spent his formative years, how happy I was to move back to Glasgow.

Rasoi Indian Restaurant (1 Millersneuk Shopping Centre, Lenzie, G66 5JD) has the distinction of being nominated for and winning two categories at this year’s Scottish Curry Awards. Hector was nominated in the Curry Lover of the Year category, there should have been a Steward’s Enquiry…

The Best Indian Restaurant in Scotland 2012, we shall see.

Arriving at 18.00 there were three groups already in situ. We were shown to a table for two in what is a most impressive Restaurant in terms of layout and design. The premises are new, everything was spick and span, no tablecloths, thankfully.

The rear of the room has a glass wall allowing a view of a small garden area, pleasant. The Menu told of the origins of selling Pakora as a side in Carriages, the adjacent pub. There was no pub in Lenzie whilst Hector was resident, and certainly no Curry House. The Menu also suggested that the Poppadoms Basket and Accompaniments would set us back over £4, when a waiter presented these we were in the dark as to whether these were Complimentary or not. How many venues bring them and charge? Too many!

Marg spotted the Chicken Labadar – Spicy, with Butter, Coriander, Cream and Cashew Nuts. Is that Cashoooo, or Caaaashoo? A worthy choice in keeping with Marg’s preferences. Hector had a problem. The Karahi was described as being similar to the Balti but served with Green Peppers – ugh! The Balti was described as including Capsicum. I had to ask. Regular Readers know that Hector cannot abide this Mushy Green Vegetable in a Curry, Marg is getting that way too. The Waiter suggested that the Green Peppers might already be in the dish, he went away to check. I was getting ready to leave. The Menu was not over-long which is preferable to venues with endless tweaks of the same Pot, however there was nothing else I would consider eating. It was somewhat amusing to see a Menu section entitled Glasgow Curry. Here lay the usual fare.

Fortunately the Waiter returned and said they could do a Karahi without Green Peppers. I ensured that Tender Lamb was the recorded option, the Tikka version was available too. At least after Friday at the Delhi Darbar (Bishopbriggs) it was clear that both were on offer. Three Chapattis at £1.05 were to be the Accompaniments. Why do we have to pay for Chapattis? Oh, Bradford was last weekend.

The wait for the meals was not long. In fact we were given ours before a larger group in the corner. Another waiter brought the food and apologised for the delay, we assured him there was no perception of one. One tends to know what is coming if a Curry comes too soon.

The Curry was served in standard metal bowls but the contents were piled high, impressive. The Masala was Dark and Thick, Hector was now anticipating something worthwhile. Spooning some of the Lamb on to the impressively warmed plates, it was apparent that the Meat content was indeed going to be worthy of a meal. As the dish was £9.95 it was pleasing to see the content justify the price. Hector is always happy to pay more than the norm if a Good Feed is provided.

The Lamb was tender and in larger pieces than served in many places. Onion was the flavour that dominated the Masala. The Chapattis were made from a Brown Flour, different. Marg thought I was struggling, no just taking my time. I was enjoying this Feast, however I cannot state that it came anywhere near the Best Curry I have ever been served in Scotland.  The Curry-Heute Recommendations on the right of this page and above, make the sources of these very clear.

Marg had been defeated by this time and was ordering Coffee. What etiquette? The portion size was way more than Marg could ever hope to polish off. She found her dish to be a good change, it was Spicy, Sweet and Sour as she expected. The rest was declared fit for a Doggy Bag, and so Hector will be forced to add a Postscript – later.

The Bill

£30.40. Initially it was £28.70 but the Coffee had not made it on in time. The Poppadoms had been Complimentary, another positive. £1.90 for a Pint of Soda Water is excessive.

The Aftermath

I had to mention that I was present on that infamous night at the Thistle Hotel. The Calling Card was received with grace.

Marg insists we bring the Mother back to Lenzie – the Hot Plates will a positive for her. Hector will be forced to try something else, the Lamb Rajasthani may well tempt me back.

Post Script

The Labadar turned out in my view to be a Deluxe Korma.  Add Ground Cashew Nuts and a bit more Chilli to my Korma Recipe et voila…

Posted in Rasoi Indian Restaurant | 3 Comments

Dumbarton – Delhi Darbar – Better by far

Posted on September 7, 2012 by Hector

Jamie and Dr. Alan convinced Hector that a Bier at The Sir Henry Bell was a good way to end the week. There was a promise of Curry too, but where? The Akash (Helensburgh) is reportedly closed though Hector was told it was open for business as usual. Apparently there is a sign on the door stating – Closed for refurbishment. The discovery of Illegal Aliens working in the kitchen and a Hefty Fine is a piece of information that has also come Hector’s way. Hopefully normal service will be resumed soon. Helensburgh needs the Akash.

The Delhi Darbar in Dumbarton is the Best Curry House, Anywhere – Jamie

Marg joined us after her Friday Coffee Ritual, a plan was hatched. If Jamie really thinks Delhi Darbar (151 Glasgow Road, Dumbarton, G82 1RH) is that good then Hector was make another visit. This has been a stop off point for many years after late nights at work. The Takeaway Pakora is legendary. My last visit was exactly one year ago today! – a Takeaway Lamb Karahi, it was nothing special. So Jamie’s credibility is on the line then.

Arriving around 21.00 the place was doing well. Has the décor been changed since my last sit down meal here which was certainly more than two years ago? With screens separating the tables and tablecloths, this venue has markedly different ambience from the Curry Outlets in Bradford where my last four Curry Experiences were recorded. Evidently, this is also one of the handful of genuinely Indian Restaurants in the West of Scotland.

A charming Doris took our drinks order, Water all round save one. Marg prevented me selecting the Lamb Karahi by spotting the Lamb Meti Gosht in the bottom right corner of a page. Lamb – Gosht? Redundancy. Meti – why not Methi? I asked for it to be served Dry and Medium with a Kick and no Capsicum. A Garlic and Coriander Nan felt like the perfect Accompaniment this evening, Hector is still Chapattid out. There was a suspicion that Doris had not recorded the order correctly, time would tell.

Marg chose the fated Lamb Karahi which one year ago failed to impress. She included Chapattis which were available at an acceptable 60p – why pay for Chapattis? Dr Alan went for Kashmiri Chicken with Peshwari Nan and two Chapattis. How much Bread can a man eat – well he is a youngster. Jamie who has been eating here all his life selected the Achari Chicken Tikka with Special Rice and a Chapatti. Chicken?

Poppadoms and Onion Chutney were brought to the table, Complimentary I believe. The Onion was in massive chunks, strange.

Who ordered the Meti Gosht?

Doris returned to check on my order. I suspect the No Capsicum was followed too closely by the Coriander and Garlic Nan as she wrote it. Good to check. Methi, Coriander, the lot please.

The wait was within acceptable parameters. A raised stand would house three of the Mains, Jamie’s was chucked on top of his Rice before Hector could take the ritual photos – he will learn. The Methi Gosht looked the part, there was hope. Dr Alan’s Kashmiri looked to have substance. The remaining Curry dishes were Red – ugh! Food Colouring is necessary, it can also affect the flavour, to its detriment.

Everyone got tore in except Hector who was minus a Nan. I had to smile, for once.  With Peshwari and piles of Chapattis on the table, I was offered some to get me going. I suspected the Nan had never made the order pad. I attracted the attention of a Different Doris and the Coriander and Garlic Nan was presented – it was obviously fresh from the Tandoori Oven and was perfection. The thicker parts were cooked through, the Coriander covering was a stand out, a good choice.The Lamb in both dishes was served in large pieces, perhaps this observation was a counterpoint to the classic Bradford small-cuts. Marg and Hector both found the Lamb to be chewy then it dawned on us, this had to be Tikka Lamb – why?

 The Meti Gosht was under the Chef’s Specials as I recall it it, there was no mention of Tikka. Tender Lamb in Curry please.

The Masala in my Meti Gosht I recorded as good to very good but certainly not in the Wow category. This however is easily the best Curry I have ever eaten in Dumbarton.

Marg found her Lamb Karahi to be Rich in flavour with a Kick. The Coriander was to the fore and enjoyed. I was able to sample it at the end of my meal, it was bland in comparison to my much better dish.

Dr. Alan described his Kashmiri Chicken as being Creamy and Gentle on the Palate.   I had to tell him that the Recipe for his dish is on this very website.  The Peshwari Nan was described as Supple, how Dr. Alan thought he would eat his Chapattis too I will never know.  In the end the surplus Bread went in a Doggy Bag. This did mean that he left some of his Curry enabling Hector to review another dish. The Kashmiri was Spicy and not over sweet, in fact I found it very pleasant. Ahmed, the Islamabad Curryspondent remarked that I might end up eating Chicken Karahi, no chance, but this meal was very pleasant. Marg should have had this.

Jamie stated that he had Good Achari and Good Chicken. Both were tasty and there was a good Meat to Masala ratio.

We had not been served a  Soup Masala, a significant positive. The sneaky serving of Lamb Tikka was a negative as is the persistent use of Red Food Colouring.

The Bill

 £48.60. This is excellent value and included one pint of a Cold, Yellow and Fizzy Drink that was hardly touched – initially.

The Aftermath

The Calling Card was left with little ceremony.

Marg and Hector were more than halfway home, the others jumped on a train from the nearby Dumbarton East Station.

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Bradford – Sunrise – A New Bradford Curry Experience

Posted on September 2, 2012 by Hector

After a day watching the Bradford Rugby and Football Teams come a cropper, Ricky was back his his normal self, he had Lunchtime Curry on his mind. The Sunrise Restaurant (6 New Otley Rd, Bradford, BD8 0RP) is a Buffet Venue which is popular with the Asian Community. Ricky had described a limited range of dishes on offer but was convinced I would find something to excite the palate. Ricky drove towards the East End of the City and we found a space in the car park. People were arriving for a wedding in the main Function Suite adjacent to the Restaurant.

We were allocated Table 2, four Diners were already in situ. We had timed our arrival to perfection as some of the dishes were still being put out.

The Bill

£7.50. Ricky was shocked, it was £6.00 on his previous visit. We would be limited to ninety minutes of eating it said on the flag on the table. Who can eat that much?

The Buffet

Onion and Potato Pakora – said the sign, very specific. I took a single large piece, one Samosa and two Lamb Seekh Kebabs. The Salads and Dips were across the room. I am convinced the Pakora had more than a hint of Cinnamon, interesting. The tactic was not to fill up with Starters.

I ignored Lamb Pilau, Chicken Biryani and a Chicken Curry and concentrated on three potentially satisfying dishes. The Handi Gosht had copious pieces of Mutton swimming in a classic 1960s Masala, Oily and Red. By sieving one was able to avoid excessive Masala and leave behind the bones. Yes, this was Lamb on-the-bone. A Mixed Vegetable Handi would provide the Interesting Vegetable, I took Cauliflower and Potato. The final selection had me salivate further in anticipation. Here was a tureen of Curried Chana Daal, the very dish I had enjoyed so much in Europe this summer and had never seen in any Glasgow Curry Café. It may be on the menu in some restaurants but is it dark and brown with a hint of yoghurt? Having eaten enough Chapattis for one weekend I took a small spoon of Rice from a tureen labelled Zarda.

Spot The Cherry!

The Lamb was as tender as Lamb can be, the taste of the Lamb was to the fore, excellent. The Masala was in the classic style, a good old fashioned Curry. I was impressed. The Vegetable Handi had more of a kick than the Meat, the combination worked well.

The Chana Daal was exactly as I had hoped for. I could not eat this Dry, Bitter-Sweet flavoured dish as a Main Course but then I am in early days. The Rice had a sweetness, I then spotted Glacé Cherries. The Rice with the Chana Daal worked well together. We then realised that Zarda on the right of the array was in with the Desserts, I had the Pudding Rice dish. Wot me worry? It worked.

Ricky tried everything, I was happy to top up the plate with more of the same. Enough already.

Dessert #2

Ricky appeared with a plate of something Orange, it was the Gajar Ka Halwa, a Carrot based Dessert. He had hoped it would be on offer. I had to try it, Hector eat Dessert and it isn’t Kofta Palak? The term Halwa is so similar to Arabic Halva, I cannot stand Halva.

Gajar Ka Halwa served warm is like a Carrot Sponge Cake, it was sweet but truly brilliant. What is happening? Starters and Dessert, Dessert? I believe Marg and Tracey could come and eat this Carrot Creation and get their full £7.50’s worth.

The Sunrise is simple food served well. I would definitely return here, but then for a £1 more one can have the best Bradford Curry possible at our regular haunts.

The Aftermath

The car park was in chaos. People were trying to get in, there was no space. People could not get out, we were those people. Still people wanted in, idiots.

The A65, even with the Sunday Drivers cruising at 40mph proved to be a more efficient route home than driving passed Bolton and Bury along the M62 and M621. I tend to drive back from Yorkshire via Settle, in future it will be my preferred route south.

England needs a Motorway that goes from the North-West in a South-Easterly direction – parallel to the Carlisle-Settle Railway?

Posted in Sunrise | 1 Comment

Bradford – First Solo Visit to The Sheesh Mahal

Posted on September 2, 2012 by Hector

Grey Lady Down were worth the drive to Maltby, now for the drive home, well as far as Bradford for the moment. Scotland was phoned to say goodnight to Marg, Ricky was already asleep back in Bradford, so no Late Night Curry for him. The signs on the M1 said that the M62 was closed between Junctions 26 and 27. Was that east or west of the Junction with the M1? As a solo driver I could not pull over on to the hard shoulder to consult a map – why not give better information? Instead I took the M1 all the way to Leeds and came into Bradford passing Pudsey, scene of a previous life.

It was Half-Midnight when I walked in to the remarkably quiet Sheesh Mahal (6 St. Thomas’s Road, Bradford, BD1 2RW). This is only my third visit to the refurbished Sheesh, what have I been doing since February? Omar was nowhere to be seen as I took my table. Mein Host, Taj was sitting in his usual spot in the corner. I had to read the Menu for the first time ever and try and find My Dish. The Menu did not mention The Omar Special by name, an oversight. Mutton Methie it would have to be. As I gave the order Taj got up and passed my seat. There was an air of recognition but as I was not there with Ricky he could not place me – but then obviously he did. Taj went into the kitchen and within seconds Omar presented – Mr Hector! All was well, my order was changed – Lamb on-the-bone was on its way.

My table had by now been covered in Salad, Dips and a Poppadom, all Complementary as they should be everywhere. Taj sat with me as I nibbled my way through the array. The Restaurant had just gone quiet after a steady flow of customers all evening. Taj knows Glasgow quite well, in an early career he used to drive up weekly. He mentioned The Allison (Arms) and knows Pollokshaws Road. It is possible he knows the Khan Family of Shaheed’s fame.

Moments like these are usually included in The Aftermath of a meal, we discussed Curry and various other Bradford Curry outlets. Taj knows that he operates a very special venue. Westgate through the wall are currently renovating, after the Sheesh rebuild they had little choice, we shall see what develops. However, how could anyone eat there knowing what is next door?

The Best Curry of This Weekend, By Far!

A waiter brought my Curry, moments later Taj brought a basket with a single Chapatti – he assured me more would come. This way they would retain their heat. The Lamb Karahi was Lamb Chops in the indescribably wonderful Sheesh Mahal Masala. A couple of pieces of the Lamb were tough, the majority perfect. The portion was so large who could make a negative comment? The Masala complemented the superb Chops, only the Chef knows what combination of Leaves were the basis of this magnificent creation. Dry and Thick, bursting with Flavour. Dear Reader, this was again one of these Bradford Moments when one knows one is eating something that simply is not served elsewhere.

Hector now ate alone and watched the new arrivals take their seats.  A group of four munched their way through a plate piled high with Lamb Chops.  Who knows when this place closes but I am delighted to announce that there is a large poster on the upstairs window stating that the premises are open daily from 11.30. I had congratulated Raj on this decision, Sunday lunchtimes may never be the same again.

The Bill

£8.50. I would happily have paid twice as much, more even.

The Aftermath

It was time for Hector and Omar to engage in conversation. He was amused to see me here by car and also without Ricky. Ricky has not been to the Sheesh Mahal since the time he ordered (singular) Quail.

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Grey Lady Down – Rotherham

Posted on September 1, 2012 by Hector

The Wesley Centre in Rotherham-Maltby, is a new venue for Hector. The Friday night drive South enabled Curry and Ale with Ricky. The plan for this afternoon was for me to accompany Ricky to the Rotherham v Bradford Football match, alas it was a sell out. Ricky was then to accompany me to the Gig, Ricky likes Prog, but the Bradford Bulls Rugby match was rescheduled for this evening and so we did our own thing today. An extra body at the Wesley Centre would have been appreciated, the crowd was fewer than 100.

The Support

The small audience were mostly sat on the raised seats watching Sean Filkins. And the five Musicians accompanying him. There was something not quite right. The band were certainly competent and were playing some Good Prog, it was Mr Filkins himself…I doubted that he was capable of holding a tune in his head. A couple of times the excellent young Lead Guitarist’s solos were off key too, he must have been listening to the vocals. This was cringe-worthy, atonal, yet the band were at times great. The instrumental breaks in the War and Peace epic were indeed, Epic. An off night? Others must have felt the pain too.

Grey Lady Down

I have a ticket for GLD at the Herringthorpe Leisure Centre dated 26 October, 1996.  This is in the cover of my copy of the CD Forces.  I believe the last time I saw GLD was in Ashton under Lyne the day Princess Diana was buried, they were playing two nights. This was Mark Westworth’s (who recently left the wonderful IQ) first outing on keyboards with GLD. By this time the third album – Fear – was the featured music. Steve Anderson was also in the Lead Guitar role, Julian Hunt being sadly missed. Louis David (keys) and Julian Hunt were the main writers on the first two albums The Crime and Forces, two absolutely stonkingly good albums. Fear was different, it was only in the drive South that I realised I still knew much of the music form the third album, but I was note perfect with the first two. Ricky had unearthed a fourth album – if there was, I never bought it.

At the interval I spoke to Mark Robotham the Drummer, we corresponded at length in what would be the early days of T’Internet. I was always asking for longer tracks, when he joined Thieves Kitchen the wish came true. Mark told me they would have both Lead Guitarists on stage tonight, the best of both worlds. On Keyboards would be a chap from G2 a Genesis Tribute Band – Piers de Lavison . There would be new – aggressive sounding – compositions with view to recording a new album by Easter 2013. They still have more to write. With Julian back on board things could work out well.

And Finally (Fear) opened the set, it worked. It was also great to see both Guitarists complementing each other, there would be few gaps in the sound with the extra set of hands on offer. Without a Trace (Forces) was next up, ah good, how many of the classics would we hear? The first of the three new compositions – 24 – followed on. This had grab you by the throat moments, it could be wonderful.

The Perfect Dream (Best Years of Your Lives – Live Album) was also new to me. If the memory is correct it was here where the Band missed their cue, the Keyboards went on and on and nobody joined in – they stopped and started again. Strange to see this happen on stage, everyone was amused. Another new composition – Cold Black Heart was next up, again this impressed.

The Battlefields of Counterpane (Forces) is a show stopper, composed by Louis David this must be The GLD song. In at the Deep End, another new one came next. This sounded more technical than musical at times, more work required. Paper Chains (Fear) brought us back to familiar territory before The Flyer (Forces) brought the set to its conclusion. I love The Flyer but never got to hear it often. Back in the days of a C90, this song did not fit into the allotted 45 minutes for one side of a cassette. Three songs from Forces, excellent. The encore was 12.02 (The Crime) the opening song on the very first album, great to hear it live once again.

This was a well balanced set, two of the new compositions grabbed this commentator. The Fear material turned out to make more sense live. I recall how I used to skip through The Cold Stage (Forces) until I saw Martin Wilson sing it live – there is not a weak moment on Forces.

So, GLD are back, I wish them every success, they were a favourite band a decade or so back. Hopefully more people will get to hear about them this time around.

Posted in Odds and Sods | 1 Comment

The International – The First Meeting of the Glasgow and Bradford Curry Bloggers

Posted on September 1, 2012 by Hector

This is an Historic Day for Curry-Heute – Hector finally gets to meet John, The Bradford Curry Blogger. We have been trying to make a rendezvous since the launch of the Bradford Website. Ironically John has often been in Glasgow whilst I have been down in Bradford. This would be a meeting of like minds.

The International (40-42 Morley Street, Bradford, BD7 1BA) is one of Bradford’s finest Curry houses, so where better to meet. It also opens before Noon, though Hector now knows that the Sheesh Mahal opens every day now at 11.30, an excellent strategy.

Parking in the usual spot in Wilton St, Hector was a few minutes early. The table was secured and the Complimentary Poppadoms and Dips were set out. John and Family were punctual. John had shown up with wife – Lynda, father -Tony, and daughter – Izzy. John remarked that he found it strange to hear me with a Scots accent having only ever read the words and heard them in his head. There was a definite air of familiarity originating from the many photographs that have been published on T’Internet in the name of Curry.

Down to Business

The Lamb Karahi Methi served in this establishment is possibly the best Curry I have ever eaten, so the level of expectation was high. On my last visit in February, the Lamb Desi disappointed, so they are human. John chose Lamb Achari, Lynda went for Lamb Spinach Balti and Tony a Chicken Bhuna. A plate of Chips was ordered for the Young Lady. One Nan was ordered, the inclusive Chapattis were sufficient for the majority.

There was time to discuss our origins as we waited for the food. Bier raised its head, indeed both John and Hector write in other Blogs, though John’s Cycle Blog is far more energetic than Bier-Traveller.

When the food arrived I was straight into Hector mode taking notes and of course photographing everything. No photos, no Blog. You have my permission to start.

Some of The Chips were eaten

The Lamb Krahi Methi was Dark and Thick, the Methi Leaves were doing their job. The Masala had the expected Bradford Curry Flavour but the Wow-Factor did not happen. One or two of the Lamb pieces were more chewy than one would like. Scooped with the excellent Chapattis this was still a very fine meal but I have had better at this establishment. Perhaps this early the real Chefs are not yet on duty.

Lynda’s Bucket of Balti looked the part. She described the Lamb as being Tender and there was plenty of it. There was a slight excess of Oil.

Tony has eaten much Curry in his life but cannot really distinguish one place from another. He should start a Blog. His portion did look smaller than everyone else’s, or is that just the vivid memory of last night’s Feast still strong in the mind?

John described his Achari as not being as Sour as he has had here before (I don’t know if that is good or bad) and found some of his Lamb to be somewhat Fatty.

The Bill

£31.00. How can four dine this well for so little?

The Aftermath

The Photographic Ritual was continued outside and we made our fond farewells. Next time Glasgow, and not a mainstream outlet – a better one.

Ricky is already in Rotherham watching Football, it is a sell-out. Hector will mosey down later for the main purpose of this weekend – to see Grey Lady Down at Rotherham-Maltby.

Now what shall I have for my evening meal, and where should I have it?

 

Posted in International | 1 Comment

Bradford – The Punjab Sweet House – Visit #1

Posted on August 31, 2012 by Hector

Punjab Sweet House (122-126 Listerhills Road, Bradford, BD7 1JR) is a name first mentioned by a taxi driver who picked us up from The Fighting Cock on January 2nd this very year – he was taking us to The International. Ricky, our local Bradford Curryspondent had not been, but then he admits to resting on his laurels – time Ricky went exploring. In short, the taxi driver recommended the Punjabi Sweet House.

Ceteris Paribus, there should be a Prog Report tomorrow to accompany the long overdue rendezvous with John – The Bradford Curry Blogger. The main reason why Hector drove south this very day is to see a band (tomorrow in Rotherham) last seen in Ashton-Under-Lyne – the day of a Princess’ Funeral. Tempes Fugit. Free accommodation at Chez Holden and the opperchancity to consume quantities of Bradford Curry was another attraction.. At the time of writing, Ricky unveils a fourth Grey Lady Down CD that Hector never purchased – guess what tomorrow’s Gig will be!

Leaving Helensburgh at 15.30 it was a somewhat frustrating drive down the M74, M6, M61, M62 and M606 to Bradford. Why do people drive at 60mph? Why am I not allowed to drive at 100mph? In the late 90’s this was normal – but the destination was not always Prog…

Hector was just passing Bury when a Hungry Holden called – I was half an hour away. A quick Check-in and a taxi took us to Listerhills Road. The Sweet House has an impressive exterior, we found the door at the third attempt.

Ashdot

There is a waterfall screening the Takeaway from the Restaurant. Wait here to be seated – aye right. A Chap in a Green Polo, OK they all wear that, took us up a stair to the rear. I speculate that more than fifty can be seated here in comfort. Ricky reckoned this place was Posh-for-Bradford. There were no table cloths, nothing pretentious. Suitably-Spartan was my impression.

The Menu had a twin pricing structure – if only The Village (Glasgow) would introduce this. A standard portion of most Curry was around £7, the Large £10. No prizes for guessing what Hector would order. Ricky decided that for control purposes he would have the basic Karahi Gosht – oh to be in Bradford and consider this the norm. Hector had spotted Karela Gosht on the Takeaway Menu in the momentary wait for our table, it had to be. No Chapattis on offer – Four Roti (60p) were the accompaniments.

The Best of Both Worlds

Starters were discussed. Four hours fifteen minutes in a Passat and only three Grey Lady Down CDs played – the appetite was fierce. Shami Kebab I thought, Seekh Kebab thought Ricky – two portions each – share.

The Kebabs came not immediately, but soon enough. The Seekh was standard, Spicy. The Shami (my choice) was the Perfect Burger. I was imagining it served with Bacon and Cheese – Kosher and Halal – NOT! They don’t know what they miss…

Ricky and Hector had time to go for a pint between Starters and the Main Course – we didn’t. Enough time to let the Starters go down, then we thanked ourselves for having ordered them, we would have been champing had we not done so.

Another waiter in a Green Polo arrived with a Laden Tray. Ricky was impressed by the portion in his standard Karahi Gosht, then The Hector saw his Large One – ooh err, Missus. This was a Curry Portion. If only all establishments would employ this system.

Ricky was a Happy Chap, he was impressed by the Portion, The Flavour, the Quality of The Lamb, a Big Thumbs-Up from Ricky. However he did concur with Hector’s negative statement.

One Dab please, and maybe more

Hector’s Karela Gosht is captured well in the photo – it was swimming in Ghee.  I have to admit that it is here where I usually find that The Bradford Curry Taste manifests itself, some Oil is necessary. The Bradford Curry Taste was there. The Lamb was cut in small pieces – In The Bradford Style – the Flavour Ooozed – but so did The Oil. I draw the Reader’s attention to a Blog entry for Akbar’s (in Glasgow) when Shabir Hussain owner of the Bradford based Chain of Curry Houses took me on a tour of his premises and showed how the Chefs Dab the Curry at least three times to remove the excess Ghee. The Bitter Vegetable was certainly present but did not have the impact that Hector has experienced in the off-the-planet Glasgow Outlet – yes the New Karahi Palace serves the best version of this I have encountered. How often has Hector favoured a Glasgow Outlet over a Bradford one? A first! Times they are a-changing?

The Roti are worth a mention too.  They did not crisp up as they tend to in most outlets.  They were edible to the end, most impressive, indeed the sheer quantity defeated the Hector.  The Curry portion was more than adequate – a less than subtle way of stating that satisfaction was  attained. I’m in Bradford, eating Curry. This makes me a Happy Old Hector. The Punjab Sweet House may not rival The Sheesh Mahal or the International on my first sampling, maybe I shall be invited back. I put these statements in to plant the seed.

The Bill

£24.95.  Ricky thought it would be more. This is still a Bradford Curry Café, no way as Posh as Ricky suggested. Good food, value too.

The Aftermath

Paying with Plastic necessitated at trip to the Takeaway Counter. The Calling Card was presented. I shall show this to The Boss said another very well spoken Chap in a Green Polo. I hope he does.

To The Fighting Cock, after all, it is a Friday Night…

Posted in Punjab's / Punjab Sweet House & Grill Centre | 1 Comment

Hector is treated to a Superb Curry at Cafe Salma

Posted on August 25, 2012 by Hector

In the aftermath of another successful Bier-Traveller Tour, Craig and Yvonne, as has become their custom, wished to treat Hector for organising Hector’s Heroic Homecoming. Café Salma (523 Sauchiehall St, Charing X, Glasgow G3 7PQ) is a venue neither has attended, at Yvonne’s insistence this would be the choice for today’s Curry-Heute.

Assassin

Before getting down to the business of reviewing the Curry, let the Hector address the matter of an abusive comment left on this site shortly after 22.00 last evening. The Author did not have the courage to leave a name and managed to provide an Email Account which cannot be contacted – hence its removal.

…the reviews are pointless and the style is offensive to read… was the conclusion to the rant. Writing in the Third Person appears to be the cause of the offence. The Ranter simply doesn’t get the joke. As Neil remarked – If it’s good enough for Hercule Poirot…

Who is Hector? The writer has only known him for five years, we are still finding our way. First person plural, Bazinga!

Apparently Hector does not review the Curry or the Restaurants in half of the almost 400 Reviews to date. Whether the Ranter actually read half before his Mother said it was time to put out the light and go to sleep we may never know.

Comments and suggestions are always welcome, abusive rants – not.

Hassan, My Son! (Hint – A Curry/Restaurant Review)

This visit to Cafe Salma puts the total in last two years in touching distance with Hector’s former place of residence – The Village. Arriving early, Hector was given the customary warm welcome by Hassan, the Proprietor. You are my Mother – said Hassan as he shook both my hands. Que? He had said Brother but it was lost in translation.

Craig and Yvonne arrived bang on the arranged time of 15.00. Both had been to their respective Schnitt-Haus. Craig’s hair was lovely, Yvonne’s wasn’t too shabby.

What to have? Having perused all the Curry, Craig stated his intention to have the Seekh Kebab as a Main. But what would it come with? Yvonne took my advice and opted for Karahi. As she does like the dreaded Capsicum in a Curry the choice was the Lamb Punjabi Karahi. Hector had Kofta Bhuna on his mind once more, but as Meatballs in Sauce is not really considered a full Meal, a Side of Aloo Gobi would provide the Interesting Vegetable.

Hassan came over for introductions and to take the order. By the end he had made two new friends. The Seekh Kebab would be presented on a Nan which suited Craig. Yvonne chose a Chapatti to accompany the Karahi. Medium with a kick? Was Hassan’s suggestion to Yvonne, this was accepted with vigour. Hector went for the always outstanding Garlic and Coriander Nan to mop up the anticipated abundance of Masala.

The Chefs were already busy completing the order for a family at an adjacent table. It was soon our turn. The Seekh Kebab was a quadruple serving. I was reminded of Craig sitting in Nürnberg eating his Sausages. Craig likes this sort of thing, he thoroughly enjoyed his meal, very tasty – not too Spicy.

Medium with a Kick. Yvonne would come to repeat this phrase for the rest of the day. The Punjabi Karahi hit the spot. Yvonne loved the flavour, the tenderness of the Lamb, and the fact the Spice level was exactly to her liking. You wouldn’t cope with this – Yvonne remarked to Craig, true.

This was only Hector’s second Kofta Bhuna at Cafe Salma. On my last visit I ruined the experience by ordering a Lamb Bhuna but was carried away and ordered it – Hot. The flavours were lost, so today no chances were taken. The Kofta Balls were large, much bigger than those served in Bradford! The Coriander and Methi were to the fore in the outstanding Masala. Now to persuade [Stan.TC] to share one for Dessert on our next visit. The G&C Nan was slightly thinner than that served normally. This may actually have been an improvement, there was more chance of finishing one, alas this was not to be. The Aloo Gobi had more Cauliflower than Potato, the Kick was significant. An excellent Complement to the Meat and Sauce.

The Bill

None of my business. Yvonne did remark that it was value for money.

I was a very Happy Old Hector. Thank you, Craig and Yvonne.

The Aftermath

Once again there was an summer afternoon deluge in Glasgow. We sat hoping… Time to engage Hassan once more. We were speculating as to how long Cafe Salma has been open, it is in its fifth year. Hassan could not believe I had only been coming for two. Today marked Craig and Yvonne’s first visit, it will not be their last.

Medium with a Kick, it was perfect…

Posted in [Cafe Salma] | 2 Comments