Punjabi (Ibrox) – Glasgow

Punjabi Ibrox – Paisley Rd W, Glasgow G51 1RF

Neil, who has assumed the honour of proof-reading Curry-Heute in recent years and was once a native of Cessnock/Ibrox, first took Hector to the Modern Punjabi in the mid 1970’s. The Curry stood out above many venues, Akbar in Cochrane Street was Hector’s favourite Curry House at that time. One particular visit was recalled in the first Curry-Heute visit to Punjabi Ibrox as it is presently called. This makes Punjabi one of the longest surviving Curry Houses in Glasgow, though the ownership and management have changed. Bill, who was Mein Host back in that era, sent Hector a faded copy of the original Menu. Bill and Hector remain in contact through social media.

Modern Punjabi – 1970’s Menu

The clock moves on to April 2011 and the opening of Punjabi (Charing Cross). Meanwhile, Curryspondent Bill still has the entitlement to the original Punjabi, and assures me that a Hollywood look-alike is how he would prefer….nonsense, one day Bill will appear here…and he looks nothing like Andy Garcia.

This was a new venture by Hari, Jazzy and family who had also taken over Punjabi Ibrox in the interim. Hector, Marg & Steve were the first customers, and this was also our first experience of Lamb Chops. More conveniently located, Punjabi (Charing Cross) became Hector’s favourite Curry House north of the River Clyde.

In time, Hector conceived the combination of Karahi Gosht and Methi Gosht to create Lamb Gurmeet, named after the Chef that evening. Sometime later, cue Bill once again, who was standing in for Hari. Customers, clearly aware of Curry-Heute, were asking for Lamb Gurmeet which was not on the Menu. Bill had to contact Hari – wtf? Days later Bill contacted Hector, the beginning of a beautiful friendship.

Fun was had with Hari et al, especially when Hari’s wife would cook us stuffed Karela, until he gave up Punjabi (Charing Cross) at the end of 2018, Pedlar & Spice became the new moniker, another branch of the family.

Alas, it too has gone.

Jazzy is now Mein Host at Punjabi Ibrox where, during Lockdown #1 by arrangement, Hector managed to secure a Curry that was in effect – Lamb Gurmeet. However, one dish has originated on these premises which is a must for all lovers of Methi – Keema Padora.