On my return from Paris in mid April, Hector thought – that’s it, no more Trips until the end of May. Then it was announced that Irmin Schmidt would be signing his book – All Gates Open – in Manchester tomorrow. For the handful who do not know, Irmin Schmidt is the last surviving core member of the band – CAN. Hector last saw him conduct the London Symphony Orchestra in April 2017.
Assuming a lunchtime event, I considered a day trip. When it became known that the signing would be at Waterstone’s (Deansgate) @18.30, an overnight visit became necessary. But then why just stay one night? I broadcast my plans to – The Company – seven signed up, however, accommodation in Huddersfield proved to be a better deal. In terms of Bier, this is convenient for Halifax and Brighouse. In terms of Curry, Queensbury comes into play. With Curry consumed on Sunday, Monday and Tuesday this week already, it looks as if I may be tested. Will there be a day without? I don’t know yet.
Five of eight arrived at Picadilly just after 13.30, four went for Bier, Hector to Kabana (22 Back Turner St., Northern Quarter, Manchester M4 1LQ England). Howard had already tantalised me with photos of his Lamb Karahi having arrived who knows how early.
Approaching Kabana, I saw new premises for Al Faisal across the street from their present locus, and next to Yadgar Cafe. Rizwan, Mein Host at Kabana, would know what is happening.
Dr. Stan was just finishing his Keema when I walked into Kabana. He had a half hour start on us and a faster train. That three of us all headed to the same Curry House independently must surely speak volumes.
Rizwan gave his usual warm greeting. I asked for Lamb Karahi on-the-bone with Rice. A very large portion of Lamb Karahi was arranged on top of an equally large portion of Basmati. 
Appearance wise, the Lamb Karahi at Kabana has altered dramatically since my first visit in 2013. Then it was decidedly – Soupy – not particularly – Karahi-like. Presently there is a Masala worthy of being considered – Karahi – much Thicker and as served to Hector – less of it – which is what one seeks. The Dish can then be transformed by adding copious amounts of Fresh Coriander, sliced Green Chillies and Diced Ginger, Excellent.
Before the eating of this fine meal got underway, I asked about Al Faisal. The unit they presently occupy is soon to be transformed into a hotel. Given the em, delicate state of some of the buildings in the Northern Quarter, I do not know if this will be renovation or total redevelopment. Al Faisal were – persuaded – to move across the street with a 28K pay off. This should give them the opperchancity to start afresh with modern fittings and facilities. I am sure the food will remain as good. I had to mention to Rizwan that their food is also very good, the difference between the two venues is the welcome. The staff at Al Faisal make no attempt to engage. We are all merely – customers. Rizwan then told me that his apartments upstairs were now in use. He was keen for me to inspect them. Let’s eat first.
Dr. Stan was bemused by the Foliage covering my Lamb Karahi. He did not realise that one could go this far. It makes such a difference to have the extra Flavours and Textures. The Ginger and Chillies add bite, the Coriander is, well Coriander, one loves it.
The Lamb Karahi at Kabana is so distinctive, one could identify it in a blind tasting. It simply gets better every time, the full on richness of Flavour. Seasoning is all, this was right on the button, and so all the Herbs and Spices performed. I didn’t count the Meat at the start, when I thought about it I still had double figures. The bone content was not excessive, the marrow bones had done their work. The Lamb was Soft, Tender, Perfection. Like my early days of eating at The Village Curry House (Glasgow), this was quite simply – Comfort Food. Is it any surprise that three of us headed straight here today?
The Bill
£6.30. People usually pay up front, Hector pays afterwards.
The Aftermath
Rizwan led Dr. Stan and Hector outside to the apartments. Two apartments sleep four, with a double en suite room and a sofa bed in the kitchen living area. Everything is spanking new and shiny. It’s amazing how the outside of a building gives no clue about the interior. The whole place was very bright and airy. The bed linen was awaiting being changed after a group had hired the whole complex. The bathrooms all have p-shaped baths allowing a comfortable shower. The kitchens have what one expects. The largest apartment on the top floor might be a bit of a squeeze with eight. Four couples might work, groups of friends as we tend to travel, maybe not. See Booking.com for prices and availability – Kabana Apartments.
And so we bade farewell to Rizwan, we’ll be back at the end of the month, a prelude to something – Grand.