Six months ago Hector booked a flight four weeks before the intended date, it happens. It was weeks later when this was realised, within minutes the European tour dates for – Anathema – were released, what were the chances? Anathema play in Köln tomorrow night, it was written, Hector had to be in Köln this week.
First stop was Köln-Sud, a visit to Indian Curry Basmati House (Severinstrasse 53, 50678, Köln). That the Reissdorf Altes Brauhaus is next door to this is a further attraction for this part of the city. Walking down Severinstrasse I was disappointed to see that Masala Hut has gone. I have rated this venue and fully intended to go there tonight appetite permitting or next month when I’m back for the intended dates.
Walking into Indian Curry Basmati House at 16.45 I would be The Lone Diner initially inside, though a couple were outside because that is where those with that habit are now located. Is flying to Frankfurt International actually better than going to Weeze if Köln is the intended destination? All will be revealed next month.
The Lady of the House greeted me on entry, it is always good to be recognised. I took my choice of table in the empty room, a Young Waitress brought the Menu. Having studied a well known and reliable Curry Website I was planning once more to revisit the Lamm Vindaloo (€9.00) with – Hector Tweaks. The Lamm Limone (€9.50) suddenly felt like a good idea. Having secured my 0.2l Bottle of Gerolsteiner (€2.00) I was ready to order.
Lamm Limone – keine Paprika aber mit Methi.
This was understood and repeated exactly to the solitary Chef on duty.
With no distractions the wait was not long. As always at this venue the plate came – Half Rice, Half Curry. At least this way one does not have wastage. A Slice of Lemon was visible in the Masala, the Topping was a Soupçon of Fresh Coriander, there was no Dry Methi as I have enjoyed here in recent visits.
Counting the Lamb, I reached eight, this was enough, the sizes were decent. The Masala was not excessive in ratio to the Meat and Rice, enough to mix in. The Spice was below – Medium – I had not specified a Level. The Seasoning was Perfect, perhaps it this feature which keeps me coming back? There was a subtle Citrus Tang, however, I was missing the requested Methi.
A Tasty Curry, but in no way demanding.
The Bill
€11.50 (£10.27) The Sparkling Water was dearer than the same quantity of Kölsch next door. How can Bier be cheaper than Water?
The Aftermath
On the way out I spoke to Mein Host who had arrived moments before, asking about Masala Hut. It is three years since I was last there. He reckoned Masala Hut has been gone a year, and suggested they had moved, possibly across Das Rhein.
New venues have opened in Köln, most in the Cafe-style. One is called Indischer Curry Hut. This will have to be explored.