Currying favour with Glasgow's curry lovers

Not for nothing is Glasgow known as the curry capital of the UK.

The city has won the prestigious title four times over the past decade – more times than any other city – and after losing out to Bradford last year, the curry restaurants of Glasgow are looking to bring the title home for 2012’s competition.

As a result, curry fever is at an all-time high. Wander around the city and you’ll find a curry establishment on every street corner, each one offering an authentic Indian taste extravaganza. Here is the Euro Hostel guide to the hottest curry venues in Glasgow.

Koolba

Located in the heart of the Merchant City in Glasgow, Koolba offers a lavish drinks menu as well as a wide range of tasty Indian treats. Their grill and barbeque menu features some especially sumptuous dishes, and there’s a mixed grill for two for those who prefer to share.

The staff are welcoming and friendly, and more than happy to guide customers through the extensive menu, making suggestions according to taste. They even cater according to preference if you prefer your dish to be a little spicier or milder than usual. 109 Candleriggs, Glasgow, G1 1NP, 0141 552 2777.

Curryoke

‘Party Animals Welcome’ proclaims the website of this fantastic riverside venue, and with good reason. Not only will you find the best ingredients for curry here, but also the ingredients for a great night out. Namely karaoke, dancing, and a party atmosphere every night of the week.

Begin the party with a selection of popadoms and dip, before being served your favourite curry and freshly-fired naan bread. And after you’ve had your just desserts, it’s time to head to the dance floor to strut your stuff, or take to the stage and establish your prowess as an aspiring Adele or Lady Gaga. 100 Stocross Road, Glasgow, G3 8QQ, 0141 258 7720.

The Dhabba

Known for producing North Indian cuisine at its finest, The Dhabba’s menu is truly something to be admired. From the bhunas to the kormas, The Dhabba serves up a host of classic Indian dishes and quite a number of unfamiliar ones.

With such a wide array of specially prepared dishes, it’s difficult to know what to choose, although we recommend taking a look at the ‘dum pukht’ cuisine if you’re really looking to treat your taste buds.

Besides the food, other reasons for visiting include the large open-plan dining area and knowledgeable waiting staff, who are more than happy to make recommendations. 44 Candleriggs, Glasgow, G1 1LE, 0141 553 1249.

Nakodar

25 years of family experience means that the chefs at the Nakodar are at the top of their game. If you’re in any doubt, you can even watch the dish being made before your eyes in their live tandoori kitchen. Very helpful if you’re hoping to pick up some curry-making tips. The menu includes something for everyone, and their commitment to using the freshest and finest ingredients means that you’ll get a great-tasting dish every time, no matter what you order.

The venue is very comfortable and pleasant to eat in, with a beer garden that’s perfect for enjoying those warm summer nights. 13 Annfield Place, Glasgow, G31 2XQ, 0141 556 4430.

Charcoals

For warm service, cold Cobras and hot curry, there’s no better place to be than Charcoals. Whether you’re going for a quiet night out with the family or a cheery soiree with a big group of friends, the staff are happy to accommodate.

The service is only eclipsed by the standard of the food, which has won recognition from Opentable, Entertainment Guide 2012 and the Hungry House Scottish Curry Award 2012. Fluffy rice, tangy sauces and meat cooked to perfection, the menu is as delicious as it is varied. 26A Renfield Street, Glasgow, R2 1LU, 0141 221 9251.

Mother India’s Cafe

This fantastic restaurant situated in Glasgow’s west end practices a belief that food should be about trying a little and tasting a lot. And so they’ve come up with a twist on tapas, replacing the Spanish food with Indian. The experiment has been extremely well-received, and Mother India’s Cafe is now one of the most popular Indian restaurants in Glasgow.

Mother India also encourages her diners to make their own, with a carefully-sourced selection of herbs and spices on sale, as well as kitchen utensils and recipe ideas. 1355 Argyle Street, Glasgow, G3 8AD, 0141 339 9145.

Madras Palace

The Madras Palace is known for its award-winning chef PJ, who has been currying favour with the Indian food fanatics of Glasgow ever since he was 16. Only the freshest locally-sourced ingredients go into the kitchen, and only the most mouth-watering Indian food comes out.

The restaurant itself is bright and busy, with a party reputation assisted by its famous karaoke nights. It’s a great place to stop in for great food, great service and most importantly, great curry. 15-17 Kent Road, Charing Cross, Glasgow, G3 7EH, 0141 248 8333.

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