Salam e Wazwan – An Overpriced and Disappointing Experience
Having traveled across 10–11 states and two Union Territories in India, I can confidently say that my visit to Salam e Wazwan in Srinagar was one of the worst dining experiences I’ve ever had.
Misleading Google Rating (4.2)
We chose this restaurant based on its 4.2 rating on Google Maps, expecting a decent meal. However, our experience made us seriously question how it managed to achieve such a high rating.
Overpriced and Insufficient Portions
In most restaurants across Srinagar and Jammu, portion sizes tend to be quite generous—almost double compared to other parts of India. Keeping that in mind, we ordered three veg thalis (₹500 each), expecting them to be sufficient for six people. To our surprise, even one thali wasn’t enough for a single person! Charging ₹500 for such a tiny portion felt outright exploitative.
The chicken dish was no better—priced at ₹350 for just two pieces with an awful taste.
Poor Service and Basic Items Missing
The rotis were served cold, but since we were hungry, we ordered three more. Despite it being peak lunch hour, they could only serve two and claimed they had run out.
No green chilies were available—something I’ve never encountered at any restaurant or even roadside stalls.
They charged ₹80 for a tiny salad plate consisting of just four to six pieces of cucumber and a few pieces of carrot. Even worse, it was pre-cut and stored in the fridge near the washbasin. Given the already high food prices, I assumed the salad was complimentary, but to my shock, we were charged for it.
Low-Quality Food and Overpriced Extras
The rice used for both plain rice and biryani was of terrible quality—thick and hard to chew.
An extra serving of plain rice cost us ₹120, which felt ridiculously overpriced.
Taste-wise, everything was disappointing, except for the mixed vegetables, which were the only somewhat decent item.
Signs of Stale Food
After paying the bill and leaving, we noticed that food was being brought in from outside in large containers—a clear sign that it wasn’t freshly prepared.
Final Thoughts
This was our last day in Srinagar, and we were in a hurry. Given the situation, arguing over food quality didn’t seem worth the effort. However, it became evident that this restaurant operates solely to take advantage of tourists rather than focusing on service or quality. Since they get a steady stream of new visitors due to Srinagar’s high tourist demand, they simply don’t care about customer satisfaction.
Verdict: Avoid this place if you want fresh, good food at...
Read moreI recently had the pleasure of dining at Salam-e-Wazan, a charming restaurant located near the scenic Shalimar Garden in Kashmir. As a food enthusiast, I am always on the lookout for unique culinary experiences, and Salam-e-Wazan did not disappoint.
First and foremost, the taste of the food at Salam-e-Wazan was truly remarkable. The flavors were rich, authentic, and left a lasting impression on my taste buds. The restaurant specializes in serving wazan, a traditional Kashmiri cuisine, and it is evident that they take great pride in their culinary expertise. Each dish was prepared with great attention to detail, and the use of local, fresh ingredients was evident in the vibrant and delicious flavors that filled every bite.
The wazan dishes we ordered were exceptional. From the fragrant gosthab to the succulent kebabs and the delectable curries (Don't know the name of all curries) , every dish showcased the depth and complexity of Kashmiri cuisine. The tender meat, aromatic spices, and well-balanced flavors combined to create a truly delightful dining experience. The presentation of the dishes was also noteworthy, as each plate was artfully arranged, adding to the overall aesthetic appeal.
The ambiance of Salam-e-Wazan was warm and inviting. The restaurant featured tasteful decor that reflected the rich cultural heritage of Kashmir. The attentive and friendly staff added to the overall pleasant dining experience, ensuring that all our needs were promptly met. The restaurant's location near the iconic Shalimar Garden added an extra touch of serenity and beauty to the atmosphere, making it an ideal spot to unwind and enjoy a delicious meal.
While the focus at Salam-e-Wazan is primarily on wazan dishes, the menu also offers a variety of other Kashmiri specialties to cater to different preferences. Whether you are a meat lover or a vegetarian, you are sure to find something to satisfy your palate. The menu selection is well-curated, providing a balanced array of options without overwhelming the diners with excessive choices.
In conclusion, Salam-e-Wazan is a gem of a restaurant near Shalimar Garden in Kashmir. From the impeccable taste of the food to the inviting ambiance and attentive service, it is clear that the restaurant is dedicated to providing an exceptional dining experience. If you are a fan of Kashmiri cuisine or simply looking to explore new flavors, I highly recommend paying a visit to Salam-e-Wazan. Your taste buds...
Read moreHi viewers,
This is a moment to share some best experiences of Kashmir trips guided by Srinagar destination tour and travels.
We explored: Pahalgam, Gulmarg, Srinagar (5 days trip). It was very nice sight seeing and we enjoyed alot. Thank you Srinagar destination for arranging us this.
I'll also take a moment to appreciate Sahib.
Knowledgeable: Sahib was incredibly knowledgeable about the area and its history. Professional: Both in driving and guiding he was very professional throughout our journey. Friendly: Sahib was not just a guide but also became friend, making the trip even more enjoyable. Accommodating: Sahib was always accommodating to our needs and preferences. Reliable: We felt completely confident in his ability to navigate the roads and show us the best of Kashmir. Attentive: Sahib's attention to detail ensured that every aspect of our trip was taken care of. Enthusiastic: His Passion for Kashmir and its culture was contagious, making us appreciate the region even more. Flexible: Sahib was flexible with our itinerary, allowing us to make adjustments as needed. Safe: Safety was clearly a top priority from Sahib, which gave us peace of mind throughout the journey. Memorable: Thanks to the efforts from Sahib, our time in Kashmir will be a cherished memory for years to come.
At one point, I can rank the Sahib no.1 guide and a driver in the entire Kashmiri trip.
Thank you Sahib! Thank you Srinagar destination!
Signing off by Rishe...
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