CHARMINAR INDIAN RESTAURANT & CATERING | ORANGE COUNTY — Restaurant in Laguna Woods

One of our friends took us here for Ramadan dinner. Boy, was I pleasantly surprised!! What a great find!

The staffs were very courteous, greeted us with smile and enthusiasm. While we were being seated, one of the owners, Mr. Zabeer, came to meet and greet us as well, gave us little bit of story behind Charminar. The restaurant was very neat and clean and interior decor and ambience were upscale. Except the water cups, everything was fine dining plates and utensils. The restrooms were very clean as well.

After scanning the QR code for menu, we ended up ordering Hyderabadi Chicken Biriyani, Tandoor Chicken, Chicken Tikka Masala, Haleem, Garlic Naan, Cheese Naan and Mango Lassi. While we were waiting for foods, our attendant came and mentioned that they would provide Iftar snacks on the house, which I thought was very heart warming touch. For Saturday when we dined, the Iftar box included dates, a samosa and a smoothie-type drink. The samosas were among the best we have had in SoCal area, and we realized that the quality and the taste of food would be among the very best. And sure enough, they were.

Despite its popularity, I’m not a big fan of Chicken Tikka Masala. But I thought it was still pretty good. The Biriyani, Haleem and Mango lassi were outstanding. All of us thoroughly enjoyed the food and their services. However, I must mention that the portions of all the food items were in smaller side.

Half way through our dinner, the restaurant got flooded with customers, and many of them were awaiting to be seated. They also arranged masala chai on the house, which was a nice touch for guests in the cold weather. Overall, it was quite an experience and seems like a cool hangout place for friends and families. Next time if we have to host our guests for Indian foods, this would definitely...

🌟 An Unforgettable Dining Experience at Charminar Indian Restaurant! 🌟 Charminar Indian Restaurant truly stands out as one of the best Indian dining spots in Orange County. From the moment we walked in, the friendly staff welcomed us with warm smiles and genuine care, setting the tone for a fantastic meal. 🍗 Chicken Tandoori & Chicken Lollipop: The Chicken Tandoori was perfectly cooked, with a delightful smoky flavor and a tender, juicy texture that left us wanting more. The Chicken Lollipop was equally impressive – crispy, flavorful, and the perfect appetizer to start our feast! 🍛 Goat Biryani: A masterpiece in itself! The Goat Biryani was rich, aromatic, and packed with authentic flavors. The goat was incredibly tender, and the biryani rice was perfectly spiced, making every bite a delight. 🍽️ Quality & Quantity: Not only was the food absolutely delicious, but the portions were generous, ensuring that everyone left satisfied. The attention to both quality and quantity is commendable and adds incredible value to the dining experience. 💖 Service: The service was impeccable. The staff treated us with such warmth and attentiveness that it felt like dining with family. Their smiles and care made the experience even more memorable. ✨ Final Thoughts: Charminar Indian Restaurant is a hidden gem in Orange County. Whether you're craving authentic Indian flavors or looking for a place with exceptional service, this is the spot to be. We love it and can’t wait to come back for more! Highly recommend it to anyone looking for a truly remarkable Indian...

First of all, it’s overrated beyond belief. The hype surrounding this place seems more like a marketing ploy than genuine praise. I’m beginning to doubt if the glowing reviews are even real. As for the biryani, it’s a disaster. The rice is practically raw, and the meat swims in an excess of gravy. It hardly resembles a biryani; it’s more like an insult to the dish. Not sure if dum biryanis were good but were told they are out if it right at the peak dine in time 8pm

The service? Don’t even get me started. Despite ordering boneless biryanis, we weren’t even offered a basic glass of water. Napkins and raita only appeared after numerous requests. It’s astounding how such a basic level of hospitality can be overlooked.

But the worst part? The behavior of the owner and waiters. Their attitude was downright appalling. They spoke in vulgar language and treated customers with utter disrespect. Even though I didn’t provoke them in any way, the environment they created was toxic and unwelcoming. It’s a shame that such behavior is tolerated in any establishment.

Overall, save yourself the disappointment and avoid this place at all costs. There are plenty of other eateries that actually value their customers and know how to serve a decent meal with a side of respect.

By the way, I have heard the same from many people here, which prompted me to write a review. I might visit this place again since there are no other Indian places around, but hopefully, they would...