Wednesday 28 August 2019

Swadish

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. 

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. 

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. 

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.  
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!