It took Hector a few visits to Manchester to experience Curry at Kabana (22 Back Turner St., Northern Quarter, Manchester M4 1LQ England). With work formerly limiting the visits to late Friday until Sunday lunchtime, the windows of opperchancity were restricted, especially as Kabana did not open on Saturdays.
As of January 18th 2020, Kabana is open seven days a week: 11.00 – 18.00.
Prior to visit #1, research had suggested that Kabana was the standout Curry Cafe in this part of Manchester. Not a Restaurant by any means, some of the food is cooked and kept warm over kettles. This is Indian Fast Food and suits those who who have business, or pleasure nearby. A couple of blocks from the Arndale Centre and a couple more to Piccadilly, Kabana is a back street venue; it caters for those who require a quick and cheap lunch in informal surroundings. By 16.00, Kabana is winding down.
Rizwan, Mein Host
Lalaa – The Chef
The Welcome at Kabana is what makes this place stand out. Similar venues may also be queued out at Lunchtime Monday to Friday. There one may get a nod of recognition, whereas Rizwan, Mein Host at Kabana gets to know his customers very quickly There is a genuine and hearty welcome here. Choose from the Menu, or for a quick meal, from the Daily Specials.
Karahi Lamb on-the-bone is Hector’s preferred Curry, however, that is only the beginning of the experience. There is a – help yourself – policy for – the foliage. A liberal quantity of Coriander, Sliced Chillies and Diced Ginger add a further dimension to one’s Curry.
Karahi Lamb (on-the-bone plus – foliage)
Boneless Lamb is also available.
2024 Menu
Too busy? Then try the sister shop on Kabana Cheatham Hill, managed by Rizwan’s brother Mani, and Paul.
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The Fayre
Karahi Lamb
Keema, Peas and Potatoes
Chicken Balti
Masala Fish
Lamb Biryani
Mix Vegetables on Biryani
Lamb Chops on Biryani
Vegetable Curry
Lamb Nehari
Chicken Biryani
Chicken Spinach
Rice & Three
Kofta (Anda)
Batair / Baterra / Quail
Lamb Chops
The Refurbishment
In November 2016 the exterior of the building was taken back to the brick, no more white paint. Note how many buildings in the Northern Quarter have gone, how many are derelict, and the gap sites. Hopefully this will please The Planners and keep The Redevelopers at bay.
In January 2017 Kabana closed, it was time to transform the interior. Hector was able to monitor the progress and was the first customer to cross the threshold on Sunday, January 22nd for the Re-opening.
New Facilities too.
Hector and Rizwan
Keep calm and Curry on, Rizwan, take care.
Hector is retired and lives in Glasgow.