Café India

Café India
29 Albion Street, Glasgow, G1 1LH
  • Telephone 0141 552 5115
  • Food served Sun–Thu noon–11pm; Fri/Sat noon–midnight.
  • Pre-theatre times Mon–Sun 3–6pm
  • Average price £9.95 (set lunch); £20 (evening meal)
  • Pre-theatre price £9.95
  • Email
  • Website www.cafeindiaglasgow.com

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Eating & Drinking Guide

The 2013 edition of The List's Eating & Drinking Guide is out now – only £5.95 (+p&p).

This review is taken from the current (2013) edition.

When restaurant entrepreneur Tony Hussain took over the long-established Café India in 2011, he kicked it up a few notches from typical Glasgow curryhouse to a classier joint, with a makeover to match. There are still aspects of the former – like the fearsome Tikka Chance, claimed to be the world’s hottest curry, for boozed-up lads wanting to test their masculinity. But a recent menu revamp emphasises their Chef’s Specials, which aim to more closely recreate authentic recipes as they’d actually be cooked in Indian homes. A tandoori chicken on the bone may take a little longer to prepare, but its freshness shows as it arrives sizzling; and it tastes great, a subtle sauce complementing the juicy meat. For those with milder tastes, the oddly named 'burnt green curry' teams spinach and garam masala with just a touch of cream. Its bland colour and texture doesn’t do justice to its light and creamy taste. In starters, a nice amount of garlic aloo zarmman – spicy potato cakes with mini mushroom slices – is a good refresher, while king prawns have their flavour drawn out by a sweet mango and honey lemon sauce.

  • High point: Very attentive service
  • Low point: Disappointing dessert menu
  • Number of wines sold by the glass: 5
  • Delivery: £2
  • Private dining: Up to 70 covers
  • Provides: Vegetarian options (at least ¼ main courses), Children's portions, Children's high chairs, Wheelchair access, Pre-theatre menu, Live music
  • Music on stereo: Middle of the road pop
  • Capacity: 200
  • Largest group: 100
  • Open since: 2007
  • House wine: £16 per bottle

Comments & ratings

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6. McFidel2 Dec 2012, 1:01am2 stars Café India Report

Food was ok but not as good as many other places in Glasgow. Bill was on the high side. These could have been forgiven but for the truly bad service. We arrived at 8 and were finally given our main courses at 10 o'clock. Staff didn't seem to be very on the ball and even the bill had to be asked for twice. As for a tip: my tip is to go somewhere else.

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3. McKendrigo24 Mar 2010, 8:36pm Report

Decent food, but definitely the worst customer service I've ever had. The staff were blunt and surly in general, but they were very rude and aggressive when my group quibbled over the bill. The menu promised 3 courses for £12.95, but because one of our 13-strong group didn't go for this option, then that meant that NO-ONE got this deal. This, we were told, was our fault for not knowing in advance. I grudgingly paid the extra just to get out of the place, I walked home with a bitter taste in my mouth after handing over £20 for the whole "experience".

You must avoid this place. The food was okay, but there are many places in Glasgow with better food, and much much more polite and friendly staff. In fact, surely almost any other Glasgow curry house would be a better option.

2. Craig9 Aug 2009, 11:16am4 stars Café India Report

I was never present at the old Cafe India at Charring Cross, but the new restaurant on Albion street was a pleasurable experience for myself. I've been several times and can recommend the Jalapeño Bombs. Superb flavour and sauce and not too spicy. Instead of chicken with your dish, try the tender lamb: I've never tasted better lamb anywhere else. I typically have it with a Chasni, which is just luscious.

Probably a bit more expensive than other good Indian restaurants in Glasgow, but probably one of the best. The pre-theatre menu offers good value.

1. Tommymax5 Oct 2008, 9:20pm Report

Birthday treat? A curry at the famous Cafe India!
Viewed menu on website and thought the Pre-theatre menu looked good.
Sat down and was handed a la carte menu. Got up and asked waiter for the pre-theatre but was told they don't do it on a Saturday. Hadn't noticed any mention of restrictions so ordered food from a la carte.
Meal was good - nothing special - bill with wine £55.00. 1 starter and no sweets.
Checked various sources and no mention of no pre-theatre on a Saturday. If there are then it doesn't say it on any of their posters.
I don't like being taken for a mug and won't be back.
I had planned on taking 3 friends out for a treat but that has changed - Mr Singhs here we come!

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Average rating 3/5 from 2 reviews of Café India.

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