Walking into a new restaurant is always exciting, but it can also feel a bit overwhelming—especially when the menu is packed with options you have never tried before. If you are visiting Ashoka Muirhead for the first time, you are in for a treat. Known for its authentic North Indian dishes, cosy atmosphere, and wide-ranging menu, it is the kind of place where every visit can feel different.
The key is knowing where to start.
This guide will help you choose the right dishes, whether you prefer something mild, spicy, or somewhere in between. By the end, you will feel confident ordering like a regular.
Start with the Right Mindset
Before diving into the menu, it helps to understand one thing: Indian dining is all about balance and sharing.
You are not expected to order just one dish and eat it alone. Instead, the best experience comes from mixing flavours, textures, and spice levels across the table.
For first-time visitors, that means:
- choosing a mix of starters and mains
- adding rice and breads to share
- picking at least one mild and one more flavourful dish
- keeping things simple rather than over-ordering
Ashoka Muirhead’s menu is designed to support this kind of dining, with clear categories and a variety of spice levels to suit different preferences.
Must-Try Starters to Kick Things Off
Starters are a great way to ease into the meal and get a feel for the flavours. At Ashoka Muirhead, you will find a mix of traditional Indian favourites and more modern, crowd-pleasing options.
Here are some excellent choices for first-timers:
- Vegetable Pakora – Light, crispy, and perfect for sharing. A safe and popular choice.
- Chicken Pakora – A slightly richer version with tender chicken pieces.
- Vegetable Samosa – A classic starter with a soft, spiced filling and crispy outer layer.
- Salt & Pepper Wings – Great if you want something with a bit more punch.
- Desi Fried Chicken – A fun, flavour-packed twist on fried chicken.
If you are dining as a group, ordering 2–3 starters to share is usually the sweet spot. It gives everyone a chance to try something without filling up too early.
Choosing Your Main: Keep It Simple First Time Around
The main course is where Ashoka Muirhead really shines. With a wide range of curries and traditional dishes, it can be tempting to try something unfamiliar straight away—but for your first visit, it is best to stick with well-loved favourites.
Here are some reliable options depending on your taste:
If You Prefer Mild and Creamy
- Korma – Smooth, creamy, and slightly sweet. Perfect for beginners.
- Chasni – A Glasgow favourite, slightly sweeter than korma and very easy to enjoy.
These dishes are ideal if you are unsure about spice or just want something comforting.
If You Want Balanced Flavour
- Rogan Josh – Rich and aromatic without being too spicy.
- Karahi Bhuna – Slightly thicker and more intense in flavour.
- Patia – A sweet and sour combination that offers something different.
These dishes bring more depth without overwhelming heat.
If You Like a Bit of Heat
- Creamy Jalfrezi – A good step up in spice while still being approachable.
- South Indian Garlic Chilli – Bold, punchy, and full of flavour.
If you enjoy spice, these are where things get more exciting.
Do Not Skip the Tandoori Options
If you want something slightly different from curry, the tandoori section is worth a look. These dishes are marinated and cooked in a traditional clay oven, giving them a smoky, chargrilled flavour.
Good first-time picks include:
- Chicken Tikka – Tender, well-seasoned, and easy to enjoy
- Lamb Tikka – Richer and slightly more robust in flavour
- Paneer Tikka – A great vegetarian option with plenty of taste
Tandoori dishes pair well with naan bread and can be shared alongside a curry for variety.
Rice and Breads: The Essential Add-Ons
No Indian meal is complete without rice or bread—or both.
At Ashoka Muirhead, these sides help balance the flavours and make your meal more satisfying.
Here is what to consider:
- Boiled Rice – Light and simple, perfect with any curry
- Pilau Rice – Slightly more fragrant with added spices
- Plain Naan – Soft, warm, and ideal for scooping up sauces
- Garlic Naan – Adds an extra layer of flavour
A good rule for first-timers:
- One rice per two people
- One naan per person (or share depending on appetite)
Vegetarian and Vegan Choices Are Strong Too
Ashoka Muirhead also caters well to vegetarian and vegan diners, which is important if you are dining with a mixed group.
Options such as vegetable curries, paneer dishes, and plant-based starters ensure that everyone has something to enjoy. Many dishes are clearly marked on the menu, making it easier to choose confidently.
This makes the restaurant a practical choice for groups with different dietary needs.
A Simple First-Time Order Example
If you are unsure what to order, here is a balanced setup for two people:
Starters
- Vegetable pakora
- Chicken pakora
Mains
- Chicken korma
- Lamb rogan josh
Sides
- Pilau rice
- Garlic naan
This combination gives you:
- a mild dish
- a richer, slightly spiced dish
- a mix of textures
- enough variety to enjoy without feeling overwhelmed
Do Not Forget Dessert or Drinks
After a flavourful meal, something sweet or refreshing can round things off nicely. For families, there are simple dessert options available such as ice cream, which is always a safe and popular choice.
For adults, pairing your meal with a drink can enhance the experience even further, especially if you are visiting for a relaxed evening out.
Take Advantage of the Pre-Theatre Menu
If you are visiting earlier in the evening, Ashoka Muirhead’s pre-theatre menu is worth considering. It offers a structured selection of dishes, often at great value, and helps simplify your choices if you do not want to go through the full menu.
It is especially useful if:
- you are short on time
- you are heading to an event afterwards
- you prefer a more guided dining experience
The Atmosphere Makes the Difference
Food is only part of the experience. Ashoka Muirhead’s relaxed and cosy setting, with a mix of booths and tables, helps make your first visit comfortable rather than intimidating.
It is the kind of place where you can:
- take your time choosing
- ask questions if needed
- enjoy a casual but quality meal
- come back again and try something new next time
That is what makes it ideal for both first-time visitors and regular diners.
Ready to Try Ashoka Muirhead for Yourself?
Your first visit should feel exciting, not confusing. By starting with familiar dishes, sharing a few sides, and keeping things balanced, you can enjoy everything Ashoka Muirhead has to offer without overthinking it.
From creamy curries to flavourful tandoori dishes, there is something on the menu for everyone.
To book your table or place an order, call 0141 779 4343 or email ashokamuirhead@gmail.com.
Once you have tried it once, you will already know what to order next time—and that is when the real fun begins.
