Confusing Pakistani Cuisine

It is not often I come across a restaurant about which I have more bad to say than good, but which I would still enthusiastically recommend. Shalimar is one such establishment.

Downstairs has a very fast-food feel, meaning that diners may feel a little hurried and not entirely comfortable, whereas the upstairs is far cosier. There are only a few tables in the tiny upstairs and their setting and the décor in general is basic – but this, coupled with the authentic Indian music actually makes for a great atmosphere.

Shalimar used to be famed as one of the cheapest restaurants in town – alas this is no longer the case. The prices are much the same as any other mid-range restaurant, which makes the slow service all the less acceptable.

Don’t get me wrong though: the service may be slow, but it is very friendly. Guests of Shalimar do indeed feel like guests.

After you get over some of the negative points though, one thing still stands out: the food.

The quality of the curry cannot be disputed – a perfect balance of spices in a rich, fresh-tasting and suitably condensed sauce, covering carefully-cooked tender meat (lamb in my case). The rice is included in the price, but there is less than you may be used to. Extra rice for the table would be a good idea. The dish is also served with a simple salad; not something you find everywhere, but something that perhaps you should.

One more pro and one more con: the con is that the poppadoms are served with a pitiful amount of mango chutney – and no raita, lime pickle or kachumber at all. The pro is the bowl of seeds by the till as you pay. They are a gentle blend of spices and sugars, designed to cool the mouth, to aid digestion and remove that distinctive curry smell. They also taste really good.

In summary, if you like great Indian and/or Pakistani cuisine, you should definitely pay Shalimar a visit. But if you are ambivalent about the cuisine, and are just looking for a great restaurant, maybe go elsewhere. It’s your choice – but excellent food does it for me every time.

Shalimar is in Austurstræti 4

Reviewed by Alex Elliott