Al Markaz Groceries And Restaurant — Restaurant in Carrollton

Last month, I got in line to purchase one grocery item 20 minutes before close. The single customer in front of me had a grocery cart full of food so it took a good 10 minutes to ring the family up. During that time, two different cashiers stared at me several different times. When it was my turn, the cashier told me they were closed. I said “doesn’t the store close in 10 minutes?” She rudely responded “we are closed.” It would have been very nice if either of the two cashiers who looked me in the eyes a dozen times while I patiently waited in line had told me the customer in front of me was the last customer of the night before they closed the register. You won’t see me EVER buying from their grocery store again. I am in that plaza almost daily and have made several purchases from the grocery section this year. Was one item really going to take that long to ring up? Please have the courtesy to tell customers the register is closed BEFORE they stand there for 10 minutes. That is beyond rude as was the cashier’s tone. You can keep your groceries. I will continue to order from the restaurant when I am desperate but only because it is convenient. Otherwise, I wouldn’t step foot in there again. The food is good but overpriced and takes WAY too long to wait for, regardless if the restaurant is empty or packed, and the cashiers will completely ignore you for a few minutes before taking your order — not so much as a “hello” or “be right with you.” They purposely avoid eye contact. I give zero stars for customer service, two stars for price and four stars for taste. Please hire more courteous staff for...

As you enter, go to the right for groceries. Straight ahead to place your order and then to the left if you are dining in. All very compactly laid out.

One of the specials for the day (viz. Tuesday) was Mutton Yakhani. It wasn't colorful even with some carrot shreds on top. The amount of mutton was generous. The quality of the rice may be acceptable for a generic "yakhani" but the end result could have been better. The presence of morsel sized potatoes in these types of dishes appeals to me (minoriity?). The taste was marginally better than basic "pulao" but one could be forgiven for not requesting a second helping.

The Frontier Chicken was boneless and mild. This entree could be a good introduction to indulgence in North Indian non-vegetarian cuisine for the first time. The bite size pieces had absorbed the marinade rather well but it was overcooked. It was served with a Naan but one's appetite may want an extra one if there is a next time.

The Faluda was just average owing to the mixins'' but then the price was one-half of similar items at other places.

The service was fully compliant with the standards of the establishment. Didn't need to remind the server to bring the desserts. Our dining status was checked periodically. The desserts were served immediately after the main meals were finished without redundant...

Al Markaz: The Ultimate Craving Cure (But Save it for Cheat Day!)

Al Markaz Groceries and Restaurant is an institution, and for good reason. If you're looking for flavorful, authentic Pakistani food, this is the place to be. While their daily menu is fantastic, the real reason for my devotion—and a line forming every week—is their special Yakhni Pulao, which is served exclusively on Tuesdays. This isn't just rice and meat; it's a fragrant, slow-cooked masterpiece where the mutton stock (yakhni) infuses every grain of rice with deep, savory flavor. The meat is tender, the spices are perfectly balanced, and honestly, every bite is yummy. It is truly fantastic food that immediately satisfies that deep, comforting desi-food craving. Now, for the honest truth: Al Markaz doesn't skimp on flavor or richness. Their food, including the Pulao, can be quite greasy. This isn't a spot for a light, frequent meal—it's indulgent comfort food at its best. If you're watching your health, this is definitely not healthy for frequent eating. However, for those days when you need a serious fix of incredible, authentic flavor, Al Markaz is unmatched. It's the perfect place to splurge and satisfy those cravings completely. Just remember: set your alarm for Tuesday if you want to catch that legendary...