Dishoom Manchester can be found within the grandeur of Manchester Hall, this is a culinary gem that pays homage to the old Irani cafés of Bombay while offering a unique dining experience in the heart of Manchester. Housed in a stunning 1920s Grade II listed building that once served as a Freemasons' Hall, this restaurant effortlessly blends history and flavour, making it a must-visit for food enthusiasts.
The moment you step into Dishoom Manchester, you're transported to a bygone era. The mahogany furniture and colourful leather banquettes exude the charm of the old Irani cafés of Bombay, perfectly complementing the original stained glass windows of the building. With a capacity for over 200 diners, the space manages to maintain an intimate and inviting ambiance.
To kick off our evening, my partner and I decided to delve into Dishoom's cocktail offerings. My partner opted for the Premier Padmini Negroni, a nod to the iconic Bombay taxi, the Italian Fiat 1100 made on Indian soil. This cocktail is a harmonious blend of dark, rich Indian cocoa, sweet pears soaked overnight in bitter Campari, vermouth, and dry citrus gin. The scarlet-hued concoction was adorned with a chocolate garnish, delivering a delightful contrast of flavours and textures.
“Dishoom Manchester manages to transport diners to a different time and place while offering a contemporary twist on classic Indian cuisine.”
I, on the other hand, chose the Dishoom Espresso Martini, a perfect choice for coffee lovers. This cocktail featured Monsooned Catuai espresso, Finlandia vodka, chilli liqueur, and black walnut bitters. The fusion of coffee, vodka, and subtle spiciness created a well-balanced and invigorating cocktail.
When it came to selecting our dishes, after much thought and debate. We started with the Matter Paneer, described as a steadfast, humble, and delicious vegetarian curry cherished by Bombay families. The velvety paneer, immersed in a flavoursome sauce, was a delightful tribute to traditional Indian flavours.
Next on our culinary journey was the Chicken Ruby, a dish that truly encapsulates the essence of a hearty curry. Tender pieces of chicken bathed in a rich and silky makhani sauce delivered an explosion of spice and flavour, leaving our taste buds craving for more. This dish was a testament to Dishoom's ability to capture the essence of authentic Indian cuisine.
A visit to Dishoom wouldn't be complete without indulging in one of their signature dishes, the House Black Daal, this dark, rich, and deeply flavoured dish is cooked over 24 hours. The creamy aromatic daal was a divine indulgence, and its slow-cooked perfection was evident in each and every mouthful.
For those who appreciate the grilled delicacies, Dishoom has an enticing selection. We opted for the Spicy Lamb Chops, two generously proportioned chops marinated overnight in a special blend of lime juice, warm dark spices, ginger, and garlic. Served with a beautiful char, these chops were juicy, tender, and packed with zesty flavours.
To complement our feast, we added a couple of sides. The Chilli Broccoli Salad, featuring toasted pistachios and shredded mint leaves, paired with the freshest green broccoli, red chilies, pumpkin and sunflower seeds, dates, lime, and honey. The combination of textures and flavours made this dish a refreshing and palate-cleansing addition to our meal.
We also ordered Steamed Basmati Rice and Raita, a minty yogurt side that provided a cool and soothing contrast to the rich and spicy flavours from our other dishes.
Dishoom Manchester is a culinary journey that combines history, ambiance, and remarkable flavours to create a dining experience that is truly unforgettable. The restaurant's commitment to honouring the traditions of old Irani cafés in Bombay is evident in every aspect of the experience, from the decor to the meticulously crafted dishes. With a diverse menu that caters to vegetarians and meat lovers alike, Dishoom Manchester manages to transport diners to a different time and place while offering a contemporary twist on classic Indian cuisine, this establishment is a worthy destination for those who appreciate the art of fine Indian dining.
The Bill: £63 per head
