What used to be a fire station on 33 Ingram Street is now actually on fire but in a good way!
From 1900 till 1984 the building on Ingram Street was the second headquarters of the Glasgow Fire Brigade. It was one
of the last stations to be built to accommodate horse drawn fire engines.
It was also one of the only centres with a motorised, turntable ladder.
Winston Churchill gave it a visit after the Blitz in 1941.
Winston Churchill gave it a visit after the Blitz in 1941.
Now it’s my
turn and I was looking to put some fire in my belly!
Swadish came to fruition a couple of months ago and is the creation of
husband and wife team Ajay Kumar and his wife Jas. As a young chef Ajay was
both guided and fascinated by his mentor’s ability to create magic using simple
and humble ingredients.
The colours and flavours of Punjabi-Indian cooking gave him a thirst for knowledge and experience in order to create his own unique dishes.
The colours and flavours of Punjabi-Indian cooking gave him a thirst for knowledge and experience in order to create his own unique dishes.
Using both ancient and
modern cooking techniques he has developed a plethora of dishes experimenting
with every available spice and ingredient he can place his passionate hands on.
He has now set Merchant City in Glasgow alight and is fanning the flames for
foodies and curry lovers alike.
Having worked in some of
the best hotel India he aims to provide optimal and friendly service in a chic
and cozy environment, lap bang in the hot heart of this city.
His wife Jas has helped to create a VEGAN menu which, even a pure sceptic like me, will be tempted to try even if my passion for meat will never be dampened.
His wife Jas has helped to create a VEGAN menu which, even a pure sceptic like me, will be tempted to try even if my passion for meat will never be dampened.
However, it means there is
something for everyone, no matter what your taste or ethics are!
There is a separate vegan menu which proprietor Jaz developed and is passionate about sharing her favorite
dishes and philosophy. Might be a case of Abstinence makes the heart grow
fonder. I tried one of the dishes with sweet potato and it was
sublime. I did have it with a Lamb dish though as I’m not ready to give
up meat…just yet!
I was surprised at the
variety of fish on the menu which far outweighed their carnivorous delights. My
friend Rizwana Ahmed had Sea Bream Wrapped in Banana Leaf, marinated with fennel
seeds, tomato masala, raw mango and green coconut chutney with gunpowder
asparagus which will blow your mind, never mind your taste buds.
Next
time I go I’m trying The Tiffin Box which is like having your own wee buffet!
For £10.95
it replicates the freshly prepared meals office workers in India take to
work and has a selection of 6 different items in it; pakora, non-veg.
curry of the day, seasonal veg. curry of the day, rice, Nan bread and Galub Jamun –
sweet and delicious. There are also vegan options for this.
Although, that combination sounds pretty vegan to me but I’m obviously not very well educated in this practice.
Although, that combination sounds pretty vegan to me but I’m obviously not very well educated in this practice.
I can't wait for my next visit to meet Jas who is adored by Ajay and together I'll
be honoured to find out more about their love story with each other, food and their gorgeous little girl!
Food for me is always about friendship and family!
Till the next time!
In Short Swadish is;
Seasonal – using local produce
Welcoming – everyone was very friendly and efficient
Affordable – quality far surpasses cost
Delightful – in every way
Innovative – developing new dishes
Stylish – interior is eclectic and comfortable
Honest to goodness authentic food
And they sell my favourite Coffee!
Click to buy!
Click to buy!