Upper Brook St. to the Northern Quarter, yes a Saturday morning has dawned in Manchester. Steve had no plans for Curry so soon after Lal Qila late last night, though he does know how Hector operates whilst on tour. Even as we approached Al-Faisal Tandoori (58 Thomas St., Manchester, M4 1EG) he was still swithering. Curry for Two. It is also Two Years since I last set foot in these premises.
There were only two tables free when we entered just after Noon. Hector had a plan. The rest of The Company were already heading to Sheffield for the planned day’s distraction. Having arrived only last night we had to experience at least one Manchester Bier Source before joining them. Al-Faisal is opposite 57 Thomas St. where Marble Ales are dispensed by Gravity, hopefully they would be open by 12.30.
Approaching the counter in Al-Faisal I asked what was available. Normally the Lamb Shorva is what attracts, Keema was mentioned, enough already. Given the length of day ahead, Rice seemed to be the Perfect Accompaniment. Steve liked the sound of Keema too and ordered Chapattis, plural.
No sooner had we returned to our seats when The Chap brought the Curry. Perhaps they do cook to order, however, I have always eaten what is ready, such is the style of the Manchester Northern Quarter Curry Cafés.
By definition, Shorva is Soup, by ordering Rice the excess Thin Masala is absorbed by the Rice. I recall the first time I experienced Shorva at the Sheerin Palace and wondered where the abundant liquid had gone. Keema tends towards – Dry – and so there was no sign of Soup today.
Keema Aloo 
The Lamb Mince Curry also had Potatoes, even better. Peas would have been an extra luxury.
There was an Instant Kick, Ginger hit the back of the throat. This was not for wimps. Seasoning is everything, it’s what makes the Flavours work overtime, this Keema was exactly how it should be. The quantity of Curry and Rice was perfect for this time of day – Breakfast. More could have been a struggle.
Steve’s plate had an Oily Residue smeared across it when he had finished. The Rice had prevented this forming on Hector’s plate, The Healthy Option. Two Chapattis? One proved to be enough, but at 60p who was worried?
As customers departed, so they were replaced. To have this array of Curry Cafés so close to The Arndale Centre must be so tempting, satisfying. What a wonderful place to have lunch midweek or for shoppers to take a break at the weekend.
That was very tasty – remarked Steve who was well impressed by this simple meal.
The Bill
£12.00. Actually £6.00 each, we ordered separately and so paid accordingly.
The Aftermath
The Calling Card was handed over, my Glasgow Heritage was announced to the Chap behind the counter. He studied the Card, this was not the first time one has been issued here, but as the critical five visits has now been reached, I must try to create an – Al-Faisal Page – on Curry-Heute. This will not be an easy task given how quiet The Chaps are who staff this venue.
57 Thomas St. was open, cue the Beer Matts, the Best New Ale we sampled last night at The Velodrome.