Royal Punjab — Restaurant in Cologne

A True Gem in Cologne – Royal Punjab is Unforgettable!

I recently had the absolute pleasure of dining at Royal Punjab in Cologne, and I can confidently say it’s one of the best dining experiences I’ve ever had. This family-owned restaurant is a shining example of warmth, hospitality, and culinary excellence, leaving me eager to return the moment I stepped out the door.

From the moment you walk in, you’re greeted with genuine smiles and a welcoming atmosphere that makes you feel like part of the family. The owner’s son, an absolute gem of a person, radiates enthusiasm and ensures every guest feels valued. His passion for the restaurant and its offerings is infectious, and it’s clear he takes pride in carrying on the family legacy. The restaurant manager is equally delightful – professional, attentive, and always ready with a kind word or a thoughtful recommendation. Together, they create an environment that’s as inviting as it is memorable.

Now, let’s talk about the food – oh, where do I even begin? Royal Punjab serves up authentic Indian cuisine that’s bursting with flavor and crafted with love. Every dish we ordered was a masterpiece, from the fragrant butter chicken to the perfectly spiced lamb biryani. The menu proudly notes that all food is Halal, which is fantastic for those seeking Halal options without compromising on taste or variety. The portions are nothing short of massive – come hungry, because you’ll be treated to a feast! Despite the generous servings, the quality never falters. Each bite is a harmonious blend of spices, fresh ingredients, and culinary expertise that leaves your taste buds dancing.

What truly sets Royal Punjab apart, though, is their exceptional customer service. The staff go above and beyond to ensure every detail is perfect. Whether it’s checking in to make sure your meal is just right or offering thoughtful suggestions to pair dishes, their care and attention make you feel like royalty. They even took the time to chat with us about the inspiration behind some of their signature dishes, adding a personal touch that made the experience even more special.

The ambiance is cozy yet vibrant, with tasteful decor that reflects the rich culture of Punjab. It’s the kind of place where you can enjoy a lively family dinner, a romantic evening, or a fun night out with friends. The value for money is incredible too – given the portion sizes and the quality, you’re getting so much more than what you pay for.

Royal Punjab is more than just a restaurant; it’s a celebration of food, family, and community. I can’t recommend it highly enough to anyone in Cologne or visiting the city. Whether you’re a fan of Indian cuisine or trying it for the first time, this place will steal your heart (and your appetite!). I’m already counting down the days until my next visit. Thank you, Royal Punjab, for an evening filled with delicious food, warm hospitality, and memories...

It's no exaggeration to say this was by far the worst dining experience in terms of service that I've ever had. My expectations aren’t particularly high, neutral is usually good enough for me; but the behavior of the maître d’ (and that’s being generous) was outright appalling. From the moment I walked in, it's like she decided I didn’t fit the ambience. She seated me at the table farthest from the window and then spent the rest of my visit barely acknowledging my existence, as if I was beneath her. (At first I thought she might just be cranky, but she was noticeably friendlier to groups, slapping on that fake smile quite effortlessly.) The tipping point came when I stopped her after placing my order to ask a follow-up question, and I saw her actually roll her eyes. I’m no body language expert, but surely a paying customer deserves at least the pretense of respect?… Maybe I’m being overly sensitive, but nothing like this has EVER happened to me. Bad meals are one thing—where at least the staff make an effort but something just goes wrong—but this felt horrendous in a way which seemed both deliberate and yet entirely avoidable. I left feeling deeply sad and humiliated.

On the bright side, the man who brought me the receipt was lovely, genuinely warm and enthusiastic. He even got me a small complimentary shot of mango lassi, which, while a simple gesture, did help lift my mood after such a miserable hour or so (though it was probably less than that—I really left as fast as I could).

As for the food, I could be petty and complain about the slightly clumpy rice or the soggy texture and faintly acrid, stale smell of the roti, but in fact the food was basically fine. The rice was pleasantly fragrant and the lamb was soft and well-seasoned. The portions were also very generous—I couldn’t even finish my meal because I was so full.

Overall, this place is a mixed bag: decent food with a toxic vibe. If you have a thicker skin than me and don’t mind being treated as little more than $$, come with friends—at least then, you might get a smile (albeit...

As someone from India, I can confidently say that Royal Punjab serves some of the most authentic Indian food I’ve had outside of India. The flavors, the spices, and the traditional preparation methods are spot on—every bite takes me back home!

The menu offers a fantastic selection of classic dishes, from rich and creamy Butter Chicken to perfectly spiced Biryanis and mouthwatering Tandoori specialties. The naan was fresh and fluffy, and the curries had the perfect balance of heat and depth.

Beyond the incredible food, the service is outstanding. A special mention to Shaki, who went above and beyond to ensure we had a great dining experience. His friendly demeanor, attentiveness, and knowledge of the menu made us feel truly welcome. The entire staff was warm, professional, and genuinely cared about providing excellent hospitality.

If you're looking for real Indian flavors and top-notch service, Royal Punjab is the place to go! I highly recommend it and will definitely be...