We've been eating at this Balbir's since it opened in the Halfway Hotel across the dual carriageway years ago, then when it moved to Ayr, then to its present location, en ex_little Chef. Overhauld (practically rebuilt) withmuch more room & lots of parking at the rear, this is probably the only restaurant I have regularly eaten in at least 4 times a month. Service is excellent, with the boss Michael & waiters providing an efficient and friendly, but never intrusive service, and quality and taste of food just outstanding! I have eaten in the other variants of Balbirs, in Church St in Glasgow's West End, at Shawlands, at Charing Cross, but though very good, they don't really come up to Balbir's at Route 77 standard in terms of outright taste and quality. Much of this is down to the chef's interpretation of a dish, for example try a lamb saag here & then compare elsewhere & you'll see the difference. Similarly the lamb methi and chicken tikka achari or pan fried lamb fillet interpretations are unbeatable. For something really different, order the salmon pakora, and you'll be back here for more. We've eaten in Asian restaurants around the world : some good,some very good and some I'd rather forget about & am happy to see that in the last 10 years or so the number of really good Asian restaurants in Glasgow & West of Scotland in particular (sorry : don't know about Edinburgh) has increased enormously.However judged on the sheer flavours which burst in your mouth, irrespective of which dish you've ordered, this retaurant comes right at the top. Theres no doubt if I was to be asked what my one favourite restaurant is, this has to be it. Price : extremely reasonable considering the high quality and a bit less than what you'd pay in central Glasgow.
Just about forgot they do carry outs to the same high standard.
The only slight downside is the slightly remote location which realistically means it can only be accessed by car (I suppose the up side is it doesn't get invaded by over excited people from the local pubs around closing time) and if heading back to Kilmarnock / Glasgow you have to head towards Prestwick first before turning since it's a dual carriageway. A trivial price to pay though.
All in All I would have no hesitation in recommending this Balbir's to any discerning curry lover & have no hesitation in awarding it five stars. read more