Back to the tried and tested. One could walk from Antwerpen Centraal to Iman Hallal (Diepestraat 101, 2060 Antwerpen, België), but still ticketed from earlier in the year, the Metro was taken to Elisabeth. Just as well, the heavens had opened, a short, sharp shower.
Negotiating my way through the throng of masked chaps on bikes to access the rear of this humble Curry Cafe, I believe there was a nod of recognition from Mein Host. The fourth visit, I keep coming back. The food here is nothing outstanding, just simple, honest fayre at attractive prices.
It was 13.40 when I took my seat. This year’s menu was provided, Iman Halal, just to further the confusion. On visit #1, yes, I’ve had it here before, but as this was the last opperchancity for a Qorma in Europe, possibly until November, it had to be.
Lamsleeves Korma Met Naan (€12.00) would be washed down with not one, but two CANs of Belgian Fanta (€2.00).
Just the one Naan was clarified, else, who knows?
Chatny? – asked Mein Host as he pointed to the Raita (0.50) on the menu.
With the hooded bikers dealt with, I had the place to myself. Previously, boxes of packet Spice were piled high on the shelf, no more. However, one cannot unsee them in one’s mind. The reality was set years ago.
With no resemblance at all to the Tandoori Naan shown in the menu, today’s was made from Wholemeal Flour, I would cope. Served whole, with blisters forming, it was a mater of hoping that the Masala would swamp the Wholemeal effect.
Lamsleeves Korma
Shorva-esque Masala with the red-oily sheen, I have come to like this. Strands of Herb, Coriander assumed, had been cooked in. There was no aroma of Citrus, or Flavour when the Naan was first dipped. Bisto, can be a common Flavour evoked in such a Shorva when packet Spices are involved. This was deemed to be better, even when a slight Creaminess was noted. Was this the Yoghurt which should have provided the Desi Qorma Flavour?
The Meat count was into double figures, so despite being served in a small karahi, the quantity of food was commendable. Super-soft Lamb, having sat in the Masala, this was giving back the Spice Flavours.
A piece of Fat remained attached to one piece of Meat, this I can sometimes actually enjoy. The Seasoning was fine, the Spice Level was, cough, fair.
How do I always manage to leave the more chewy pieces of Meat to the end game? Do they hide on the plate?
Overall, this Curry lacked the hoped for depth of Flavour, but was still enjoyable. Filling – never an issue. At one point, I thought I might manage all the Naan, the sheer volume of Curry determined otherwise.
I keep coming back here. I see no reason not to, my sort of venue.
The Bill
€16.00 (£13.71)
The Aftermath
An exit without further comment.
Home tomorrow, but not for long.
2026 Menu
