Pukhtaan, located in the bustling Karol Bagh area, is a restaurant that promises an authentic Mughlai dining experience. Inspired by the legacy of Padma Shri Chef Imtiaz Qureshi, the place is known for its rich flavors, traditional cooking techniques, and a menu that pays homage to the royal kitchens of Awadh.
Ambiance & Service
The restaurant exudes an old-world charm with warm lighting, elegant dΓ©cor, and a seating arrangement that balances comfort and sophistication. The service is generally attentive, with staff members well-versed in the menu and eager to offer recommendations. However, during peak hours, the wait time can be slightly longer than expected.
Food & Flavors
Pukhtaanβs menu boasts an impressive selection of kebabs, biryanis, and slow-cooked curries. The Galouti Kebab is a standout, melting in the mouth with its perfectly spiced and finely minced meat. The Mutton Nihari, slow-cooked to perfection, delivers deep, aromatic flavors reminiscent of traditional Awadhi cuisine. The Dum Biryani, layered with fragrant rice and tender meat, is another must-try, though some might find it a bit on the milder side in terms of spice.
For vegetarians, the Dal Makhani and Paneer Lababdar hold their own, offering a creamy, flavorful experience. The bread selection, including Sheermal and Roomali Roti, complements the gravies well.
Value for Money
While Pukhtaan is priced slightly on the higher side compared to local eateries, the quality of ingredients and authenticity of flavors justify the cost. However, it does not offer a buffet or alcohol, which may be a drawback for some diners.
Final Verdict
Pukhtaan is an excellent choice for those looking to indulge in rich, traditional Mughlai cuisine in the heart of Delhi. Its strengths lie in its well-curated menu, high-quality ingredients, and a nostalgic nod to the grand culinary traditions of Awadh. While service delays and limited parking might be minor inconveniences, the overall experience makes it a worthwhile...
Β Β Β Read moreDuring my recent culinary exploration of Delhi, I had the opportunity to visit Pukhtan, a restaurant that carries the towering legacy of the late Chef Imtiaz Qureshi, one of Indiaβs most celebrated culinary icons. Known for reinventing and redefining Awadhi and Mughlai cuisine, Chef Qureshiβs influence is deeply felt in every bite served at Pukhtan. His contributions to Indian gastronomy have even been featured in a documentary alongside Gordon Ramse, showcasing the brilliance of his craft and philosophy toward food.
Pukhtan today operates across five to six locations in Delhi, offering consistent quality that clearly respects the heritage of its founder. The food here was nothing short of excellentβdeep, aromatic flavors, tender meats, and gravies that reminded me why Delhi is the heart of North Indian cuisine. The balance of spices, the richness of the curries, and the softness of the breads showed a kitchen that truly understands its roots.
However, one aspect that slightly fell short of my expectations was the ambience and scale of the restaurant. Given Chef Imtiaz Qureshiβs stature and legacy, I had imagined Pukhtan as a grand, fine-dining destinationβperhaps more spacious, opulent, and immersive Instead, the setting felt more compact and casual. While this doesnβt take away from the food itself, a larger and more luxurious setup could elevate the overall dining experience to match the iconic name behind it.
That said, Pukhtan remains a must-visit for any lover of Indian cuisine. It is not just a restaurantβit is a tribute to a legend. And for that alone, it deserves...
Β Β Β Read moreAs Navaratri is round the corner ,so before that ,i hit this place to satisfy my cravings for non-veg food. As this place is always my favourite when it comes to northindian food, and when i got to know that ,they opened there new branch in karol bagh (Gaffar market) ,so without wasting any time, i went to gulp all the incredible delicacies pukhtaan had.
This outlet is divided into 3 floor, quite a small ,cozy place to spend time with your friends and family with decent sitting and with good music.
Now what i had in food - β’ Paneer tikka β’ Murgh peshawari tikka β’ Pukhtaan kakori kebab β’ Gosht qaliyan nehari β’ Pukhtaan dum mutton biryani. β’ Gulab jamun Everything was freshly made ,the flavours were intact and taste very yummy.
I would definetly love to visit again and try more from the menu.
Good...
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