Basti: The Food Street — Restaurant in Chaklala Cantonment

Basti Management,

Today, I brought my mother and brother to your restaurant to celebrate her special day, but the experience turned into a complete disappointment due to the rude and arrogant behavior of your staff.

We were only three people and politely requested a table on the ground floor (open-air area). Instead of accommodating or even showing basic courtesy, your representative coldly refused, saying all tables were “reserved,” and pushed us to sit on the terrace. When we didn’t find the terrace suitable, I personally went back to request that we be placed on a waiting list for a ground-floor table.

While I was talking to the representative, a table for four became vacant as guests were about to leave. I immediately requested to be seated there. Shockingly, I was told that the table was now being “joined with reserved tables” — even though there wasn’t a single guest sitting there. I again requested politely, but your staff’s attitude was dismissive, disrespectful, and completely lacking in hospitality.

The situation became humiliating. People were looking at us as if we were creating a scene, when in fact, your staff’s arrogance and poor customer handling caused the issue. My mother and brother felt insulted, and I was deeply embarrassed. We left the place without dining — a celebration ruined by your staff’s unprofessionalism and lack of basic manners.

Let me be clear: customers pay for respect as much as they pay for food. Businesses don’t fail because of competition — they collapse because of the attitude and behavior of their representatives. Today, your team’s arrogance lost you not only three customers but also our future recommendations.

We build your reputation — not the other way around....

Review: Basti Restaurant (Bahria Town) — A Desi Dream or a Disoriented Reality?

Visited Basti today with the Zero One team and some business friends, hoping for a hearty desi meal. At first glance, things looked promising — but soon we realized this might be their "second phase", and by that I mean the kind that causes toothaches.

Food: The dishes were present, yes — but felt downsized to “smart” portions, as if someone counted the calories with a calculator. It reminded me of my grandma hiding sweets back in the day — plenty of taste, very little on the plate.

Service: There was no shortage of staff, yet everyone seemed like they were forced to attend a wedding out of obligation or fatigue. At the front table sat a man, probably in his mid-40s, who looked like the manager or an elder uncle from a family gathering, fully engrossed in TikTok while generously sharing his "entertainment service" with his co-workers.

Need actual service? I suggest you bring a written application — there’s a strong chance you might get what you need by the end of the meal.

Management & Booking: Despite booking two days in advance, they had no clue about it. We walked in and were welcomed by a warm dose of mismanagement, minus the smile.

Ambiance: It honestly felt like a desi living room gathering — cozy, chaotic, and completely oblivious to guests. If that’s your vibe, you’ll feel right at home.

Conclusion: If you’re looking for reasonably priced food, a nostalgic village vibe, and a touch of comic disorganization, then give Basti a shot. But if you're someone who values professional service and order, this place might feel less like a restaurant and more like a rest stop on a long,...

High Tea at Basti: A Mixed Bag

The high tea at Basti had its ups and downs. Unfortunately, the service left much to be desired. Refills were slow throughout, and in the last half hour, they stopped refilling items—even when requested. The serving dishes were also notably small, which added to the inconvenience.

Starting with the welcome drink, sugarcane juice was advertised, but mint margarita was served instead—a disappointing start. The hot and sour soup was average, and the only fish item on the menu was fish crackers.

Highlights:

The oriental cuisine shone with dishes like chicken tempura, honey wings, drumsticks, and Dhaka chicken—all finger-licking good. However, the vegetable spring rolls were a letdown.

Their gol gappa and French fries were standout snacks, while the pakoras were enjoyable.

Madrasi chicken, Hyderabadi chicken, and pulao were exceptional, while the karahi dishes were average. The BBQ section impressed, particularly the beef seekh kebabs and chicken.

Among desserts, khasta jalebi, gulab jamun, and mini cream puffs stood out. Assorted pastries were delightful, but kheer, mousse, and egg pudding were just okay.

Lowlights:

The pasta lacked flavor, tasting like plain boiled pasta in sauce.

Many snacks like pizza slices, chicken patties, and mini croissants were unavailable.

The Russian salad was top-notch, and tea was praised by my family (though not a tea drinker myself). While some items were exceptional, the inconsistent service and unfulfilled expectations dimmed the overall experience.

Verdict: A decent experience, but improvements in service and attention to menu...