After New Year in Huddersfield, The Company took the risk that Quality Ale would still be found in Manchester. It was worth an overnight stop off before taking the train north.
Arriving at Victoria before 13.00, the bags were deposited at Ancoats Travelodge. We took refuge at Mackie Mayor which, despite the prices, is becoming a Marg-favourite. Kabana (22 Back Turner St., Northern Quarter, Manchester M4 1LQ England) as always was Hector’s preferred Manchester lunchtime Curry venue. We waited until 13.45 to let the busy period pass.
Rizwan et al were in their usual places. There is always a welcome greeting from Mein Host and a smile from those who assist. This, and reliably Wonderful Curry, is what makes Kabana a must visit when in Manchester.
Lamb Karahi (£4.80) on-the-bone plus Basmati (£1.50) is Hector’s usual at Kabana, though the Cauliflower and Potatoes on top was also tempting. Marg had already eaten at Mackie Mayor and so was happy to watch. She took a seat in the now almost empty Curry Cafe.
Rizwan spooned a huge serving of Rice on to the plate then covered this with Lamb and Masala. A quick – ding – would give it an edge. I was able to get a photo of the Curry before and after Rizwan added the Toppings. Mein Host brought over the Lamb Karahi. Marg asked about the Ginger, Chillies and Coriander. I explained that Rizwan knew I would cover my Curry with these, it’s how it works in the Northern Quarter.
Lamb Karahi
Having managed two visits here in December, I have marvelled at the seemingly enhanced Quality of the Fayre. I counted twelve Large pieces of Meat, Bones were present but not abundant. Much of the Masala soaked into the Rice w
hich would make the endgame all the more enjoyable. The Flavours that Chef produces in the Masala never fail to impress.
There was a big Clove blast of Flavour followed by the Fresh Coriander. I took one of the big Bones and sucked out the Marrow … this was even hotter than everything else. The chopped Green Chillies added the required – Kick, the Ginger cubes added even more Flavour. Cumin Seeds and Black Peppercorns were encountered, this Masala had pedigree.
The Meat devoured, I was left with four Bones and some Rice. Normally the Rice would be of little interest and is often abandoned, not at Kabana. Rice and the Masala would be a meal in itself.
As I finished the final grains, Rizwan came over:
Hector, are you much of a dessert man? I’ve never seen you eat dessert.
Strange that Dessert should be mentioned again this week.
I gave my usual answer:
If I had room for Dessert, I would have more Curry, whereas, my Dear Lady…
Marg had eaten cake at Mackie Mayor so we may never find out what was on offer.
The Bill
£6.30 Is this really – dining out?
The Aftermath
IQ (my favourite Prog Band) are playing in Bury in ten days time, Hector will be back in Manchester. Still closed on Saturdays, I had to ask if Kabana really opens at 09.00 on Sundays as Google Maps suggests.
10.30 – was Rizwan’s reply. So, no Kabana for Hector next weekend, an opperchancity, though not much time, to try somewhere else.
Meanwhile on this January 2nd and Hector’s second Curry of 2019, do not be surprised if a visit to delhi2go is squeezed in before bedtime.
As I walked out of Kabana, I felt brand new, totally replete, ready to face the day.
Every day is a good day to eat Curry.