Kala
Manchester, Greater Manchester
‘They make you feel like you could stay all day,’ and nothing is too much bother for the tuned-in, courteous staff at this big-city bistro from crowdfunding supremo Gary Usher – famed for his neighbourhood eateries across the northwest. Inside, Kala looks the part, smart but not showy, with chic forest-green banquettes, an open kitchen and a pared-back mezzanine dining room with a bar below. Knowledgeably sourced ingredients and seasonal forays define the ever-changing menu, which is all about assertive flavours from home and abroad. Madeira-braised pig’s cheek with caramelised apple purée and a hazelnut, parsley and caper dressing is one way to begin, or you might prefer butternut squash roasted with Turkish Baharat spices. To follow, there are classics (confit duck leg, chicken schnitzel), as well as globally inspired fish dishes such as halibut fillet with pak choi, enoki mushrooms, black noodles and caramelised celeriac broth. The kitchen is also brilliant at the ‘simple things’: chicken liver parfait; the now-legendary truffle and Parmesan chips; roasted carrots with smoked garlic honey; sticky toffee pudding with butterscotch sauce. Value for money has always been high on Gary Usher’s agenda, and Kala’s fixed-price ‘great bistro menu’ is an absolute steal at £15 for two courses. Wines (from £27) are also easy on the pocket as well as the palate.
Dining Information:
Separate bar, Wheelchair access, Family friendly, Credit card required
55 King Street, Manchester, Greater Manchester M2 4LQ
0161 839 3030
